CESSNOCK need to re-write the Newcastle Rugby League history books in order to claim the crown in 2019.
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Not only are the Goannas trying to end a 16-year title drought when they tackle minor premiers and favourites Western Suburbs in Sunday's grand final at McDonald Jones Stadium, but the Coalfields outfit has never beaten the Rosellas in a title decider.
Of seven meetings between the clubs over the last five decades (1966, 1980, 1981, 1999, 2008, 2012, 2014), Wests have come up trumps on each occasion.
Cessnock have eight premierships to their name, with the last being 2003, and this will be their 28th grand final appearance since 1932, losing their previous five.
* WESTS transferred training on Tuesday evening after Harker Oval was closed, but alternate venue Raymond Terrace probably copped even more rain by the time the session rolled around.
* OFFICIALS have been appointed for Sunday with Joey Butler set to oversee his first grand final in the top grade. Billy Greatbatch and John Taylor are the touch judges.
* ONLY two clubs, Macquarie and Kurri, won't be represented across the five grades in deciders this weekend. Wests (4) and Souths (2) have multiple title shots while Cessnock, Maitland, Lakes and Central are all single entries. Action at McDonald Jones Stadium from 9:40pm.
* PREMIERS were crowned in Newcastle Hunter Community Rugby League competitions on the weekend - Dora Creek (A-grade), West Wallsend (B-grade), Tall Timbers (C-grade), Dungog (D-grade north), Hamilton (D-grade south), Aberglasslyn (A-grade women's tag), West Wallsend (B-grade women's tag), Stroud (C-grade women's tag) and Berkeley Vale (women's tackle).