The Dubbo Kangaroos may have been beaten in Saturday's top-of-the-table battle in the Blowes Clothing Cup but skipper Shaun McHugh is adamant his side still has what it takes to win this year's premiership.
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Emus completed an unbeaten regular season at Apex Oval on Saturday, downing the Roos 25-22 in a match where both sides scored four tries but struggled converting them.
The Roos dominated the early stages before Emus' strength and class came to the fore and they led 18-15 at the break.
The visitors were first to score again in the second stanza and while a second try for Roos winger Charlie Kempston inside the final 10 minutes set-up a grandstand finish the consistency and composure of Emus ensured they got the job done.
Errors and poor execution at key times hurt the Roos but McHugh remained upbeat post-game, stating the performance was his side's best of the season and he was positive the Roos can find another level in next weekend's semi-final against Orange City.
"100 per cent. Of course we can, there's no doubt about it," he said.
"We've just got to be more patient and more clinical in areas but we've got the game plan to win it, we know that much.
"We just lacked a little execution today but we put it together and we can hold the trophy."
But, in a warning to McHugh and the rest of the competition, Emus captain Charlie Henley is confident his side can also go to another level.
A dominant forward pack and a patient and composed approach was key for Henley's men in Saturday's win, as it has been all season.
Flanker Sam Greatbatch and prop Archie Hall were among the try-scorers while scrumhalf Sam Green also got across, darting over from close range late in the second half after his forwards and created sustained pressure.
Centre Aidan Baker was the other try-scorer and he was a standout in the win, having been called in to replace inspirational skipper Nigel Staniforth.
Staniforth was left out as a precaution ahead of next weekend's semi-final while winger Tom Joseph is also expected back after missing Saturday with an ankle injury.
Teenager Alex Brien slotted into the side for Joseph and Henley was delighted by the performances of both replacements.
"It's unbelievable," the captain said.
The Roos will again be at home in next weekend's semi against City.
The back line again showed its quality on Saturday, Kempston continuing his fine start to life in first grade with another double while centre Johnny Mafiti and fullback Jayden Blake also crossed.
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
