Led by Jayden Rymer and Aaron Clayden, the Marlins turned a 27 point, three quarter time deficit into a 13 point win.

The final score was Nelson Bay 10.17 (77) to Cardiff’s 9.10 (64).

The Marlins kick 11 straight behinds before Clayden and Luke Price kicked their first goals just before half time to have the Marlins trailing by one point at the long break.

Nelson Bay looked in control of the game early in the third quarter after goals to Clayden and Jeremy Eddy saw them lead by 10 points.

However from this point on Cardiff dominated, kicking six unanswered goals to open up what many considered a match-winning lead of 27 points at the final change.

Nelson Bay coach Sean McGrath urged his team not to give up.

The final quarter was a tight affair for the first 10 minutes, however a big mark and goal from the goal square to Rymer changed the game.

Rymer went on the kick the next two goals, before a David Wood snap at the 22 minute mark gave the Marlins the lead.

A miraculous snap from Clayden extended the Marlins lead before Eddy sealed the win with a goal on the run.

Luke Price, Eddy, Rymer and Nathan Vaisey were the best for Nelson Bay with Rymer and Clayden kicking three goals.

Nelosn Bay will now play two time reigning premiers Terrigal Avoca in the preliminary final.

The final will be held at Newcastle No 1 Sportsground in Newcastle after Terrigal Avoca went down to Newcastle City in the second semi final.