ALL four Lions and Lioness sides lost their matches in the first round of the semi-finals in Bathurst on Sunday, knocking both Lioness teams and reserve grade Lions out of grand final contention.

First grade Lions finished the season in second place, which gives them a second chance, as they play the winner of third and fourth, Macquarie United, for a grand final spot next week.

Reserve grade Lions were beaten by Macquarie United 4-0, as the team struggled to retain possession and shots at goal were smothered by the opposition’s strong defence.

“It’s been a good season for reserve grade,” coach Dominic Keir said.

“We had a bad start, winning just one of the first eight games. We really picked up in the second half of the season and it’s pretty impressive we made it to the semi finals.”

Only two reserve players were needed for the first grade game, which was a good effort as in recent weeks most players have been required to play both games.

The Collegians are reigning premiers of the competition, and showed why on Sunday, with very impressive team work and skill threatening the strong Lions outfit.

The Collegians scored early in the game, and the Lions returned the goal, taking the score to 1-1, evoking a loud cheer from a large group of Young supporters.

In the second half despite goal keeper Mat McKnight making some amazing saves, two more Collegian goals were scored.

The Lions never lost hope, and fought to the end.

The final result was a loss 3-1. This should be good grand final practice, as the Lions will play Collegians if the boys can defeat Macquarie United on Sunday.

“The boys never backed down, and I am really proud of the way they worked together and didn’t stop fighting until the end,” Keir said.

“It was great to get so much support from the crowd. I hope we can stir up another big crowd on Sunday.”

The Lions will play for a grand final spot against Macquarie United at 3pm in Bathurst on Sunday. The bus will leave the Young Services Club at 11am.