Forbes grind out a win for the ages
The Forbes Platypi acknowledged the players they lost in the Bali Bombings 14 years ago when they snapped a premiership drought at Endeavour Oval on Saturday, grinding out a stunning 28-20 victory over undefeated minor premiers Orange Emus to claim the 2017 Central West Rugby Union title.
After two seasons of disappointment at the Emus' hands, the Platypi finally found a way to deal the greens a dose of heartbreak and did so in the biggest game of the year.
The victory reverses last year's grand final result and is also Forbes' first in a grand final since 2003, when the Platypi downed Bathurst Bulldogs in an emotional victory not long after losing several players in the Bali bombings.
The lead changed hands five times during the thrilling decider but second half tries to Matt Coles and Mahe Fangupo, along with a late Nedd Brockmann penalty goal, sealed the eight-point win for Forbes.
"It's just special for the club. It was a big occasion [in 2003] and now 14 years to the d