GUNNEDAH FC have booked their place in a fourth consecutive grand final after having defeated South Lightning in Saturday's preliminary final.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Looking to bounce back from a 1-0 major semi-final loss to North Companions, FC were eager to ensure they got another crack at Northies in the grand final.
Duncan Thompson proved the difference in attack as FC went on to claim a 3-1 victory and book their place in this Saturday's grand final at Scully Park from 6.30pm.
Read Also:
FC coach Andy Cygan said he was extremely proud of the fact both the club's first- and reserve-grade sides had made the grand final.
"We always knew it was going to be a big challenge taking on Souths, but fortunately our guys really stepped up," Cygan said.
"Our young guys out on the wings, Jayden Thomas and Rohan Keilor, played exceptionally well and will most like retain their positions for the grand final.
"As well as that, Duncan really stepped up again and looked really dangerous for us in attack."
Having lost their past two grand final clashes to Quirindi FC, the side will focus on defence in the lead up to this year's decider, Cygan said.
"In the past three years we have conceded 10 goals in grand finals, so it is definitely something we will need to look at," he said.
"This year is a little different for us. In previous years, we have won the major semi-final and gone straight into the grand final.
"This time around, we have had to play in the preliminary final, which may hopefully work in our favour because we haven't had the week off."
Cygan said playing at a neutral venue, such as Scully Park, may benefit his side.
"It is a magnificent ground to play on and I know our guys always get excited when we have the chance to play there," he said.
"I think the wide open spaces and the perfect surface will give our guys the best chance to play the way we want to play.
"Especially our younger guys, who love to use the wings to attack."