THEY shattered the Muswellbrook Rams’ dreams in 2017.
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Now, talented trio Josh Schmiedel, Liam Foran and Guy Thompson are ready to do it all again when the Aberdeen Tigers tackle the Scone Thoroughbreds in the Bengalla Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League decider at McKinnon Field on Sunday.
With Schmiedel and Thompson producing big performances up front, and Foran claiming man of the match honours, the Tigers over-ran the Rams 36-26.
Another emphatic victory this weekend, on home turf, would be the icing on the cake for the good mates.
“I’m pumped, I can’t wait,” Schmiedel said.
“It’s funny; I played against Foz (Foran) at Newcastle for a couple of years, while Guy did a pre-season with us at Macquarie.
“So, we’ve formed a bit of a bond at the Tigers.
“We also tried to integrate our experience into the team along the way.
“Usually, when you win a premiership, you lose the hunger the next year.
“That’s why it’s hard to defend a title.
“But, the Tigers snuck in at the end of 2017.
“And, even though most people felt Aberdeen boasted the best players, we really weren’t the best team.
“So, a premiership this time around will mean more to all of us.
“I believe it would be a bigger achievement [to accomplish that] in 2018.”
That yearning is one of the major reasons Schmiedel, Foran and Thompson stayed on with Aberdeen this season.
“Definitely, we want to defend our crown,” the second-rower said.
“So, Foz, Guy and I decided to return.
“Since last year, we’ve all spoken about going back-to-back.
“We have a burning desire to do that.
“The boys got a bit cocky early on; however the one-point loss to Scone was a wake-up call.”
Even though the Tigers accounted for the Thoroughbreds 24-16 a fortnight ago, Schmiedel is expecting a different kind of battle.
“It won’t be anything like the major semi-final,” he admitted.
“Everything is on the line – there are no competition points up for grabs, no second chances.
“Most deciders are close.
“And, there hasn’t been too much between the two sides in 2018.
“Plus, I don’t think the scorelines have reflected the efforts by both teams.
“But, we want to be the best this year.
“It’s been a huge feat for the town to have first and reserve grade as minor premiers; as well as hosting the grand final.
“Aberdeen is a tight-knit community – and we appreciate everyone’s support.
“From the coaching staff to the committee, the players to their families, it’s a team effort that’s got us here.
“It would be an amazing thing for Aberdeen if we lift the shield in front of our fans at McKinnon Field on Sunday.”
Group 21 grand final draw
Sunday, August 26 – McKinnon Field, Aberdeen
10.30am: league tag, Scone v Muswellbrook
11.50am: under-18s, Singleton v Scone
1.20pm: reserve grade, Scone v Aberdeen
3pm: first grade, Aberdeen v Scone