With the Eagles coming off a big win in their previous week’s match with Sawtell, and Port suffering a loss against Coffs Harbour.

The Eagles were entitled to some favouritism in this match, but the Sharks were the more determined team from the opening whistle.

The Sharks went straight on the attack and, when a penalty saw them close to the Eagles’ line, they scored to take a 6-0 lead before the Eagles had held the ball.

Port were in again in a repeat of the first set of six, following a second penalty, to lead 12-0, and from there on the Sharks really took control of the game, running in three more tries to lead 24-0 before the Eagles could come up with any sort of answer.

When the Eagles finally got on the board it was a great team try, on the back of a big break by Luke Cartwright. From the play the ball Grant Coleman sent a good pass to Neville Donovan, who then sent the ball to David Pickvance.

Showing his typical skills Pickvance split two defenders before passing to Will Ghilotti, who raced over to score in the corner and reduce the Shark’s lead to 24-4.

The Eagles were in again after only three tackles after the kick off when Donovan sighted a gap and sped into it before sending a great pass to Jesse McEwen.

McEwen raced down the sideline, and as the cover came across kicked infield to find Cartwright racing through to pick up the ball and plant it under the posts. Pickvance converted and the Sharks lead 24-10.

These tries buoyed the Eagles’ supporters, but their hopes were dashed soon after when the Sharks ran in their fifth try of the afternoon, which was converted to see Port lead 30-10. A sixth try saw the Sharks take a 36-10 lead into the half-time break.

The Sharks were clearly in control of this game, and as the frustration felt by the Eagles lead to errors, penalties and two sin-bins, Port took no pity on their hapless opponents and ran up a final scoreline of Port 74, Macksville 10.

Despite the result for their last match the Eagles can be justifiably proud of their efforts this season. Despite losing a number of players at the beginning of this season the Eagles were still contenders till the final, and while their defeat was thorough their efforts over the year were more than praiseworthy.

‘A reminder to all supporters who were part of this year’s 100 Club, that the final draw will be held this Saturday, at the Nambucca Hotel. All participants are invited.