In a highly anticipated match up, post season regulars and seven-time champs Bankstown took on a rejuvenated Manly side.  In the early exchanges, things were fairly even, with the focus on the defensive end from both sides.  In a close affair, it was 12 all at the first break.

Bankstown 12 – Manly 12

Bankstown came out of the blocks the strongest in the second quarter, opening up a nice lead, led by the Hennessy sisters and Sarah Hately, the Bruins looked the stronger.  The Sea Eagles looked to their gun players Sally Potocki and Eva Afeaki, but they were down by 9 at the main break.

Bankstown 37 – Manly 28

The Bruins continued their strong play to open the second half, earning their first double digit lead.  With great inside play, highlighted by Wendy Strong, Bankstown showed their class to to take the three quarter time lead 53-44.

Bankstown 53 – Manly 44

The fourth quarter began with a fired up Manly side, behind and with their season on the line.  They fought hard, but could not match the intensity that the Bruins were putting on display.  Deserving winners and advancing to yet another final, Bankstown wound up 13 point winners.

Bankstown 70 – Manly 57