The Roosters moved through to the first division grand final following a hard-fought 13.15.93 to 11.7.73 win over Maitland in a high-quality game at Adelaide St Oval on Sunday.

Singleton now plays the winner of the preliminary final between Maitland and Newcastle City at Newcastle No 1 Sportsground in a fortnight.

The Roosters got off to a flying start and kicked the first four goals of the game, including two to Nick Roberts.

However, Maitland struck back and led by two points at the first change, 4.3.27 to 4.1.25.

The second quarter was a tight contest with only one goal kicked for the period.

Despite wasting opportunities in front of goal, Singleton led by 10 points at half time, 5.7.37 to 4.3.27.

Maitland hit the ground running in the third term and kicked six goals.

This enabled them to hold a handy advantage, 10.5.65 to 7.12.54, and lead by 11 points at the last change.

With a grand final berth at stake, both sides were totally committed.

Two early goals to Alex Mitchell had the Roosters in front and, with Sam Brasington cutting off many Maitland attacking entries, Singleton was able to finish with a flurry and win by 20.

Meanwhile, the Cats kept their dream of an undefeated season alive by the barest possible margin in a pulsating second division semi-final at the Adelaide St Oval in Tumbi Umbi on Sunday.

A late 50m bomb from star forward Adam Higham enabled the Cats to defeat their great rival The Entrance Bateau Bay (TEBB) Eagles by one point, with final scores being Muswellbrook 8.12.60 to TEBB 9.5.59.

The Cats were behind all game until the final quarter. 

At the long break, TEBB still enjoyed a handy advantage, 7.2.44 to 4.7.31.

But, Muswellbrook reduced the margin to 8.2.50 to 6.10.46 in the third quarter – making it anyone’s game.

Utility Jackson Bower starred for Muswellbrook with three goals and a huge number of possessions. 

Muswellbrook finished the fixture full of running and can now prepare for the grand final on Saturday, September 3.