Junee was able to keep up with the Roos in the first half, only allowing one try to keep the score to 4-0 at the break.

But the Diesels let their guard down in the second, allowing the Roos to run away with the win.

Junee coach Mark Elia said the loss would help to kick start the team in time for finals.

“Hopefully we can learn from that,” Elia said.

“I think the loss has shown us what it takes to beat a top side like the Roos.

“We held out in the second half but we had a bit of fatigue and pressure, and they really capitalised on that.”

The game was not the only loss for Junee, with centre Damien Willis ruled out with an injury before the game and captain Adam Perry facing a possible sideline view after coming off with an ankle injury.

Coach’s award went to fullback Tom Lidden with lock Cameron Woo selected as the players’ player.

Woo was the best for Junee with another solid game.

The Diesels reserves put in a big effort to defeat the highly fancied Kangaroos outfit.

It was a close encounter with Junee winning 16-14.

Flying centre Chris Lewis was the difference between the two sides, scoring three tries to hand Diesels the victory.

Secondrower Darryn Walker and hooker Rhyce Clemson won the coach’s and players’ awards.

The win puts the Diesels third on the Group Nine reserve grade ladder.

Diesels under 18s are climbing their way up the ladder following a 20-18 win.

Junee led 16-14 at half- time with both teams scoring a try each in the second half.

Players to stand out for Junee were Hayden Diggins, Mitchell Bradley, Alex Pirie and Ricky Judd.

Judd won the coach’s award and Pirie the players’ award.

The girls put in a big effort in league tag but went down 28-20 against last year’s finalists.

Alanna McAuliffe was outstanding and was selected by the players as their best.

This weekend the Diesels play the Tumut Blues at Willow Park with the winner going in to third spot on the Group Nine ladder.