The term 'fairy tale finish' gets plenty of use in sporting contests, and so it was for Nelson Bay Junior Rugby League's under-16 team in last Saturday's dramatic grand final decider.
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The side, coached by Ben Heywood, has been dubbed 'Lingy's Lads' after their number one supporter and proud Nelson Bay father Steve Lingard, who is battling motor neuron disease.
The former Parramatta junior was the inspiration behind the team's comprehensive 22-4 grand final victory over South Newcastle played in front of a parochial Nelson Bay crowd at Cardiff.
In emotional scenes seldom witnessed at junior league deciders, the Bay celebrated a day that will live long in the memories of all those in attendance, and especially for the Lingard family, with son Rhys making a huge contribution to the win by scoring a try and being a constant threat in attack. Clever halfback Bailey Rae was awarded player of the match.
Unfortunately for Nelson Bay's other two grand final teams, it was a character building day with the talented under 13s, coached by Ritchie Kincaide and looking for a third straight premiership, beaten by a late try to Wests 14-12.
After two previous premierships in the 11 and 12 years age groups, the boys will hang tough for next season.
The Bay's under 14 side, coached by Aaron Mullins, was also run down late in its grand final match against Cardiff at Toronto, going down 16-14.
