IN a frustrating game, the Muswellbrook Eagles' Saturday all-age side picked up a seemingly unsatisfactory point, which confirmed their title as the 2019 minor premiers.
Carving out countless opportunities to score, the usually-clinical front line couldn't beat the opposition keeper and were held to a 0-all draw at Victoria Park against Lambton Jaffas.
However, it was enough to continue their unbeaten record and give them an unassailable lead with two matches to go before the finals.
Consistent fullback and winger Mitchell Shepherd again was voted as man of the match but would have been ruing a number of missed chances to win the encounter, which was a common theme among many squad members on the day.
The defence was strong again though, with the ever-improving Nathan Royal coming top three in players' player, in what is becoming a standout season for the high school teacher.
Coach Brodern Adam-Smith, who was sidelined and unable to play himself, had strong feelings after the match.
"Our boys dominated the game I felt, we were hungry and looked the most likely to go on and win it," he said.
"I didn't keep an exact tally but I would say that we had at least 15 decent shots on target.
"The Jaffas' keeper played an amazing game and there wasn't anything we could do about that, we were very unlucky not to walk away with all three points."
Despite the disappointment, he was still ecstatic about finishing top of the table during the home and away season.
"It's a massive achievement for our boys," Adam-Smith stated.
"We had a big pre-season and have been working very hard this year.
"The results are showing and the biggest thing for us now is to keep this run of form and carry it into the finals.
"Being undefeated all season is a huge achievement but can sometimes cause some complacency.
"I'll be drilling the boys this week to make sure we keep our heads because the job isn't over."
Due to a lack of numbers they were again forced to lean on members of the Friday night squad, with Mark Thorley stepping in as the centre-back pairing for the unassuming Marty Stuart.
There was no extra strain on the defender, however as the Friday side was caught in a difficult situation in which they were forfeited against, but subsequently overtaken in second place on goal difference.
Automatically being given a 3-0 victory wasn't enough as their top-two competitors, Maryland Fletcher, demolished Mayfield Junior 6-0.
They're still in a strong position however, and both Muswellbrook all-age teams look poised for the finals, which would be a fantastic accomplishment for the town.
