RUGBY UNION
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They tried hard and never gave up but the Maitland Blacks had their season ended by Wanderers yesterday.
The Blacks were downed 26-12 by the Two Blues in the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union elimination semi-final held at No.2 Sportsground.
First-year Blacks coach Mat Thomas remained measured about the loss but said it still cut deep.
“It just wasn’t our day,” Thomas said.
“I’m proud of our boys and the way they played and fought all the way until the end, that is the pride in the black jumper coming out.
“But it still hurts.”
The Blacks scored the first and last tries of the afternoon through fullback Josh Gray but it wasn’t enough to get across the line.
Wanderers compiled 26 points and crossed for a crucial try on the stroke of half-time to lead 15-5 at the main break.
Thomas said it was disappointing a dangerous spear tackle on halfback Jono O’Toole went unpunished by the officials outside a warning and consequent penalty.
The mentor praised the efforts of second-rower Nathan Brennan, the defence of winger Lachlan Gulliver and Steve Belcher’s late shift to flanker after Newcastle representative James Johnston withdrew from the match with illness.
Wanderers now progress to next week’s minor semi-final and meet Merewether, who were beaten 22-10 by The Waratahs in Saturday’s qualifying semi-final.
However, The Waratahs will vie for a grand final spot when they go head-to-head with minor premiers Hamilton in the major semi-final.
In the lower grades only seconds and thirds remain alive for Maitland and the minor premiers will be in action this weekend.
The Blacks’ colts and C-grade teams were beaten in their respective play-off matches yesterday.
It was the first time the club had qualified in all grades for semi-finals since 1999, which coincides with Maitland’s last top grade and club championship titles.