Port Makos have enjoyed a strong 2018 NSW State Cup, but have fallen just short of a prized championship.
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Despite starting Sunday's competitions in a relatively strong position with seven teams competing, all were either eliminated in the quarter finals or semi final stages.
However, their performances have been the strongest at state cup level. with seven progressing into Sunday's quarter and semi final series.
"For a regional centre that is an excellent result and is better than the 2017 results," Ms Bullus said.
"The results proved that Port Macquarie could match it on the bigger stage.
"The standard has been high all weekend.
The results proved that Port Macquarie could match it on the bigger stage.
- Emily Bullus
"There has been some excellent defensive and attacking teams here which are just that higher level standard than the Makos teams.
"It would be great if we (the Makos) could to attend a few more major tournaments through the year.
"We just don't have the numbers of players to compete at that metropolitan level. But we still are competitive.
"The Makos are very happy with our performances over the weekend."
The women’s open, mixed masters and senior mixed all reached the quarter finals on Sunday, but all lost in close matches.
However, the mixed open, men’s 20s and women’s 20s all progressed through to the semi final stage.
While all three also did not progress, the teams' performances drew strong praise from their respective coaches.
Ms Bullus also praised the Tuffins Lane venue.
"The venue has held up really well.
"There was a bit of rain prior to the event which actually put some green grass on the fields.
"Normally it is pouring rain for this event, so it is really nice to have some sunshine.
"Although the fields are getting a bit dusty with all the games toward the end of Sunday."
Throughout the weekend the medical tent proved a popular place with several suspected ACL injuries, alongside numerous knee and shoulder injuries.
"It is a tough sport," Bullus added.
In further good news, Brad Walsh and Emma Bleasdale each gained their state referees' badges.
In the men’s open final, Doyalson defeated Parramatta while in the women’s Canterbury Bulldogs downed the Easts Roosters.
