IN a dazzling conclusion to their remarkable season, the Boambee Eagles are 2023 Premiers, finishing the season in style with a magnificent 7-0 victory over the Bellingen Bats at Ayrshire Park last Saturday.

This victory propelled the Eagles to an impressive 14-point lead over the second-place Urunga team, with a 22-point advantage over the third-placed Coffs City United Lionesses.

Despite having secured the premiership several weeks earlier, Eagles’ coach Neil Witherdin remained grounded, keeping his focus on the upcoming playoffs and the ultimate grand finals.

The pivotal 1v2 playoff on September 2 against the reigning champions Urunga would carve a direct pathway to the grand final.

Reflecting on the challenges ahead, Witherdin acknowledged the threat Urunga presents, referencing a recent 4-1 loss.

“Our encounter with Urunga a few weeks ago served as a reminder that reaching the grand final won’t come easy,” Witherdin said.

“While this season has been fruitful, we know our full potential hasn’t consistently shown.

“There have been fleeting moments where we’ve truly shone.

“As we gear up for this week’s finals series, we understand the calibre of our competition and we need to be at our best on Saturday,” Witherdin said.

Across town, the Woolgoolga Wildcats meticulously timed their surge to secure a coveted spot in the finals.

Their 2-1 victory over the Coffs United Lionesses on the season’s final day allowed them to leapfrog over Sawtell, who suffered a 5-0 defeat against Urunga.

In the impending 3v4 elimination clash, the Lionesses will square off against the Wildcats on September 2.

The victor will then have a chance to face the loser of the 1v2 playoff on September 9.

The ultimate prize at stake: a berth in the grand final on Saturday 16 September at C.ex Coffs International Stadium kicking off at 4:45pm.

By David WIGLEY