This weekend’s final round against Cooma would have been the deciding factor, but club president Garry Arkin said a forfeit from the Eden Tigers secured the coveted prize ahead of schedule. 

The two clubs were scheduled to play a rain catch-up round, but when the outcome would have no effect on the final standings, Eden took the opportunity to rest injuries. 

First grade captain-coach Ryan Apps said it has benefitted his own squad as well. 

“It has probably benefitted us, and them too, we’re starting to pick up a few injuries,” Apps said. 

“We would have had to play it mid-week, which would have jammed in too much footy so it’s a good thing for us.”

The club has all four senior teams in to the finals, with three claiming top two spots. 

The Roosters are consistently a strong contender in the competition and Apps said he was delighted for the Roosters to claim the honour. 

“It’s a great effort, we’ve had some fresh faces come back and it’s been a good year. 

“It is a great job of the coaching staff  - the under 18s are undefeated so far and the Chicks are minor premiers.”

With celebrations put aside for now, there is still a game to win on Sunday. 

“If Cooma wins they might even slip in to the top four. 

“We will have to go in with the same game plans we did last time, they’ve got a big pack so we’ll play fast footy on the fringes,” he said. 

The Roosters are equal first with the Moruya Sharks, but are losing out on for and against. 

If they can win over the Stallions by 28 points they will claim the minor premiership, but Apps said it is not his priority. 

“I’m just worried about getting the win first and foremost, if we win by 28 we’ll get the minor premiership. 

“If that happens it does, but the main thing is to get the win and get a roll on.”

Arguably the biggest challenge for the Roosters this weekend will be the league-tag clash. 

Win or lose, the Chicks will hold top spot, but a decisive win could set the tone for the finals campaign. 

Apps said the matches between the pair are explosive and fun to watch. 

“It can get very fiery and is always great to watch, they’re the best of the league-tag. 

“[Other clubs] are all getting better, but these are the top two and it is always a close match,” he said. 

The reserves and under 18s have both locked in their final berths too, and will be looking to build momentum for the finals series. 

The under 18s will also be looking to maintain their unbeaten record. 

Games start at the Cooma Showground from  10.30am.