Cessnock have kept their Newcastle Rugby League season alive by defeating Souths 26-16 without the services of key trio Harry Siejka, Jarred Anderson and Pita Godinet.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The Goannas led 10-6 at the main break of the elimination semi-final and scored 16 straight points in the second half at Cessnock Sportsground on Sunday.
It means the Coalfields club now meets Central in next weekend's minor semi-final at Townson Oval.
Souths, who were in front twice during the game, have been knocked out of competition for 2022.
MORE IN SPORT:
- How do the Knights find their next homegrown superstar?
- NRLW season preview: Can the Knights turn the wooden spoon into silverware?
- Jackson Baker takes positives into 2023 after early exit in Teahupo'o: Surfing
- Macquarie snap Central's streak and move within one win of grand final: Newcastle RL
- Falcons felled by sweet-shooting Sutherland in NBL1 East finals: Basketball
- University into Newcastle championship netball grand final
Cessnock playmaker Sam Clune scored his team's first try, helped set up the next and kicked five goals, including two penalties late in the piece.
Josh Charles, Brent Mendyk and Anthony Meleisea-Murray also crossed for the Goannas.
Connor Browne, Travis Petersen and Reeve Howard scored tries for Souths while Harry van Dartel slotted two conversions.
Siejka returns on Sunday after serving a one-match ban while Anderson remains sidelined with a three-game suspension. Godinet failed a fitness test this week.
Souths welcomes back No.7 Jason Keelan, who set up two tries from kicks, Reeve Howard and Jack Welsh from injury lay-offs.
Maitland and Macquarie clash in the major semi-final at Maitland Sportsground on Saturday.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark: newcastleherald.com.au
- Download our app
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter
- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Google News