Clarence down but not out, says coach, after TSL finals mauling by North Launceston
One of the finest State League players ever to pull on the boots has retired after Clarence’s big semi-final loss.
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IT was a finals thumping of epic proportions but Clarence coach Jeromey Webberley was proud that his boys made it to the finals in a turbulent TSL season and is confident his group will stick together for another shot at the title next year.
It will be without champion warrior Brady Jones, who announced his retirement to the group after the 78-point semi-final mauling by a rampant North Launceston at UTAS Stadium on the Bombers’ way to a seventh straight grand final.
The Roos led at quarter-time but a sparkling start turned into a forgettable finish as the Northern Bombers blew the Roos away 15.8 (98) to 3.2 (20).
At the final siren Webberley gathered his young team on the field to remind them of the progress they had made.
“I told them to think about where we have come from and how far we’ve come in such a short period of time,” Webberley said.
“We take a lot of valuable lessons out of today and we’ll stick together and we continue to work.
“In 12 months there’s no reason why we can’t get ourselves back here and give ourselves another opportunity against the best side in the comp.”
Several of Clarence’s veterans will consider their futures but Jones has already made up his mind.
“Some of the older guys will make their decisions and some of the younger guys are going to be in the Devils next year but the nucleus of our group will stick together and drive the club forward,” Webberley said.
“Jones has retired. He is a big loss to the club.
“He has been a great leader, and fantastic player, and a great role model for the young guys coming through.”
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