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THE Warriors will have to take the long way to the Victorian Rugby League premiership.
The top seed in VRL’s First Grade competition failed to fire against the Sunbury United Bears on Saturday at Greaves Reserve.
A 12-4 lead at half-time by the Warriors – forged through tries to Jesse McQueen and Brandon Manase – wasn’t cashed in after the main-break.
Casey conceded eight tries and five goals to fall 22-42 in the second semi-final, despite five tries of their own – a Brandon Manase hat-trick, Jesse McQueen and Fitu Pailegutu – pushed the Warriors ahead.
Fortunately the Warriors’ stellar season granted them a double chance as Casey will now head to the preliminary final – facing the North West Wolves on Saturday at Langama Park in Sunbury.
There is extra motivation for Casey to emerge triumphant this week as the VRL grand finals will all be held this year at their home ground Casey Fields on Saturday, 6 September.
Casey’s Women’s Tag team has qualified for the grand final following a 6-0 win over Werribee Bears.
