A KALEB Harper intercept in the dying stages broke the hearts of the Greta Branxton Colts under-14s at Greta Central Oval on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With the Hunter Valley Combined Rugby League decider in the balance, and the hosts on the attack to level proceedings, the flying Thornton Beresfield Bears winger secured the 16-4 victory, thanks to a brilliant 90m run.
"We deserve this [win]," successful captain Machai Pillidge said.
"The boys would like to thank everyone who assisted us this season."
With big-hearted prop - and man of the match - Kani Tapara leading the way, the Bears nabbed early points when Bailey Whiting dived over.
Thornton Beresfield extended that advantage in the second quarter after hooker Tom Jarvis burrowed through from dummy half.
Henry Hancock converted to give his team a 10-0 buffer at the break.
But, the Mitch and Brady Hammond-coached Colts refused to lie down.
Talented second-rower Hunter O'Neill scored a smart try to provide a glimmer a hope.
Then, with five minutes left on the clock, it appeared as though Greta Branxton would strike again through its backline.
However, Harper grasped a floating pass - and sprinted away, much to the Colts' dismay.
Hancock put the icing on the cake, converting for a 16-4 triumph.
Great Branxton's disappointment was offset somewhat by the effort of the club's mighty under-11s, who snared the minor premiership.