Singleton player-coach Jed Ellis-Cluff knows the Roosters will have to be at their best to make their first men's Black Diamond Cup grand final as they prepare to meet Newcastle City over the next two weekends.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The teams both recorded wins on Saturday and remain equal second on the competition ladder going into their last-round encounter at Rose Point Park.
Regardless of that result Singleton and City will face off again in an elimination semi-final on October 10, vying for a place in the 2020 decider.
The Roosters broke through for their maiden top-grade appearance in the play-offs 12 months ago while the Blues have featured in the previous two title showdowns and claimed seven premierships since 2008.
In their only other meeting earlier this year Singleton led by one at the main break but ended up down by 63 points at the full-time siren.
"We know we can go with them when we are up and about, but we know how poor we can be if we switch off. It's a good time of year playing finals and we need to be at our best," Ellis-Cluff said.
Singleton's Oliver Moody kicked five goals in round 11 as the Roosters (11.9-75) beat hosts Cardiff (4.11-35). Ellis-Cluff said Jack Silver was also strong in defence. The Blues (10.16-76) accounted for Maitland (4.3-27).
Elsewhere, minor premiers Terrigal Avoca (8.18-66) extended their winning streak to 28 straight games after defeating fourth-placed Killarney Vale (1.1-7).
Fifth-placed Nelson Bay (13.14-92) kept their slim finals chances alive after getting the job done against Gosford (9.9-63).
Zach Lauristen bagged seven majors as Warners Bay (18.13-121) overcame Wyong Lakes (7.4-46).
While you're with us, did you know the Newcastle Herald offers breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up to date with all the local news - sign up here
IN THE NEWS:
- $7.25 million sale at 38 John Parade, Merewether sets new record for Newcastle
- Car slams into unit complex at Glendale, residents escape injury
- Mark Latham questions in Upper House why Black Lives Matter, gender equality and Adam Goodes film was shown at Maitland High School
- Car plunges off cliff face at Bar Beach in Newcastle