NSW City and Country Under 19 sides have just missed out on the National Championships final after suffering narrow losses to Queensland teams.
NSW City looked certain to score in the final two minutes and pull off a memorable victory until a try-saving tackle from Keilee Jospeh helped send the Queensland Sapphires into the final at Redcliffe.
The Sapphires led 6-4 and were in control before City winger Jess Whelan pulled off a brilliant intercept and raced 40m downfield.
Joseph managed to run Whelan down and bundle her over the sideline to ensure a Sapphires win.
Later in the afternoon, NSW Country mounted an inspirational comeback but fell just short after going down to Queensland Rubys 12-10.
The Rubys went into the halftime break up 6-4 and extended their lead in the 25th minute through a try to Tiana Raftsrand-Smith.
NSW Country five-eighth Keeley Kopara gave her side some hope after she crashed over midway through the second half. Country NSW showed plenty of fight as they launched several attacking raids at the Rubys line, although it wasn't to be as their defence held strong.
NSW Country five-eighth Keeley Kopara gaver her side some hope after she crashed over halfway through the second half. The country girls showed plenty of fight as they launched several attacking raids at the Rubys line, although it wasn't to be as the Rubys held on for an impressive victory.
