It was a tough game for Bowral, coming into the match after three weeks off.

The Kookaburras held an 18-16 lead at the break but could not hold on in the second half.

Coach Daniel Ismail said his team was up against a bigger side that was better prepared for the match.

“The loss could have been a good thing for us. We have to win the next game to get into the grand final,” he said.

“I was pleased with the way they stuck with it and tried their hearts out. They didn’t let the Warragamba side get to them. It was a team performance and that’s what we’ve prided ourselves on all year.”

Ismail said it was a tough loss given the last time the two teams met, Bowral enjoyed a 34-14 win.

The Kookaburras will now face Moss Vale in an all Highlands battle for a spot in the decider this weekend.

“Playing Moss Vale it will be all about defence. We let too many points in [on Sunday]. That will be the main thing and getting our focus back in the game.”

He said they would also fine tune their attack “so when we have the ball we can cross the try line and score some points”.

“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far this year and we’re looking forward to a good game this weekend.”