Moree Bulls took on Tamworth’s Pirates at Narrabri on Saturday, coming home with a 37-20 win.

Coach Josh Connell said the boys were running into the wind for the first half, so they had to stick to the game plan and run the ball a lot more, knowing the Pirates would kick to the corners and try and box them in.

Connell said the only let down to their first half performance was a staggered defensive at times which lead to a few soft tries, but this was resurrected in the second half.

“We had a few nervous moments but defence wasn’t an issue in the second half,” Connell said.

“A lot of points scored against us were the result of our own errors so hopefully we can improve on that going into the final.”

He said the team would be working line speed and defence at training.

“Ultimately we’re happy with the fact that we are in the grand final.

“We’ve been at the top of the table for most of the season and there’s only been three points splitting Moree and the Pirates the last two times we’ve played them, so that’s a good feeling,” Connell said.

Ben Day and Ben Jackman were standouts at the weekend.

“They were fantastic,” Connell said.

“They’ve been two of the best all season.

“The forwards were a real standout and played a good, smart game. Joey de Dassel also played a smart game,” he said.

The under 18s have already secured their position in the grand final while first grade will take on the Pirates at Tamworth this weekend in the hope to join the rest of the club.

“It will be a big game so we’ll wait and see what happens,” Connell said.

“First grade have been a little unlucky at times this year but they’ll well and truly be in it,” he said.