The next generation of Magpies is ready to fly in to this Sunday's Group 11 Under 18s grand final

The young Magpies are preparing to meet Macquarie, the side they defeated in the second round of the Group 11 semi-finals to book their grand final berth.

Scoring two tries in the last five minutes to win that game, they proved they can perform under pressure – Merritt was pleased with the leadership shown by captain Jaiden Burke.

But this is a new week and they’re focussed on grand final preparations.

“Excited and nervous,” is how Merritt described the mood. “There’s a lot that haven’t done this before.”

Merritt has looked to last year’s premiership-winning first grade side for guidance including several of his own family members – Barry, Zac and Traie – and says they’re not putting any extra pressure on themselves. 

“People are saying Macquarie have it won, we’re the underdogs – I like it better that way,” Merritt said.

Merritt says he’s encouraged the boys all year to take opportunities, and opportunities don’t come much bigger than grand finals.

“We give ourselves opportunities,” Merritt said. 

“As a group we have done that, and we couldn’t be any happier.”

“We’re a long way off winning the comp, but we’ve got that opportunity.”

Merritt is looking forward to fielding the side he’s been hoping to all season with his full squad available.

“Even early in the season, we always had our rep players away or someone out with injury,” he said.

“This is the first time we’ve had all of our players available. I’m hoping they’ve saved the best for last.”

Most importantly, they’ve got a tight-knit team.

“As a coach, I wanted to make sure we have that bond,” Merritt said.

“If you have got mateship then grand finals will come. Develop that first.”

Forbes Magpies: 1 Charlie Staines 2 Tom Maguire 3 Will Nixon 4 Kristian Markwort 5 Brad Clifton 6 Tai Baxter 7 Kurt Mylecharane 8 Nic Mulligan 9 captain Jaiden Burke 10 Luke Evans 11 Haydn Raumati 12 Mitch Rubie 13 Warren Baxter 14 Mitch Jack 15 Aaron Mawhinney 16 Simon Bayley 17 Jed Herbert 18 Farren Lamb 19 Bailey Bray

Charlie Staines – when you need something big, he will come up with it. Has played for Western Rams representatives sides for several seasons, and has just signed with the Panthers. He’s your ideal rugby league player, both lightning fast and strong.

Tom Maguire – his first year in the 18s and he brings a lot of energy to the side. Very capable of coming up with just the play that’s needed. Very powerful for his size, don’t be misled.

Will Nixon – this centre’s work rate is second to none, he will get down and dirty when he needs to. A very safe player who knows when to get angry and how to use that for the game. From Red Bend, it’s been good to see him become good mates with his fellow Magpies.

Brad Clifton – started on the bench and has been moved around a bit. Has found his opportunity on the wing and does his job, which is to score points – and at crucial times too. 

Tai Baxter – A lot of people describe this five eighth as a superstar and they’re not far wrong, Tai is an outstanding talent. His kicking game is second to none and he can read the play like a first-grader. His combination with his right-hand edge has to be seen to be believed. He’s captain of that space, a communicator who makes sure everyone knows their job.

Kristian Markwort – started on the wing but approached the coach for a chance to play with the centres. Top try-scorer for the young Magpies with 12 tries this season. He’s tall and lanky, but don’t underestimate his strength. And when he and Charlie Staines work together, watch out.

Kurt Mylecharane – just who you need at half back, he can steer the side around and maintain his composure. He’s been exciting to watch all season, but with the other half back out of action for a few weeks he has stepped up and been outstanding. A leader and the other boys feed off him.

Nic Mulligan – he’s in the front row, the engine room, a leader where you need one. Will always put his hand up to execute a tough carry. The Magpies sure missed him when he missed a few games.

Jaiden Burke (captain) – the hooker was a bit hot-headed at the start of the year, not really settling in to his role after a shift from half back. But he’s found his cool now and we can see a completely different game. The Magpies needed three tries in 10 minutes against Macquarie, and it happened. He showed courage, took his opportunities and he followed the Magpie creed, never give up.

Luke Evans – His first year in league, but it looks like league is his game. The powerful front rower has leg speed, size and aggression in the middle. Feeds off Mulligan and Baxter, is developing his offload and is always willing to learn.

Haydn Raumati – he’s got size, speed and power and has seized his opportunities to get a jumper this Sunday. Started on the right side but shifted to the left and has found his place working with Mylecharane.

Mitch Rubie – hits a very good line which is a back-rower’s job. Has learned from first grade captain coach Jake Grace and developed a hard line. He has size and power.

Warren Baxter – has moved from the second row to lock. Is one of the side’s senior players who can be counted on to step up for the big moments, when it counts. An intimidator who holds nothing back in attack or defence. His kick from the sideline when Magpies were down 18-16 against Macquarie was magical.

Mitch Jack – A reliable player who will give his all. Started the year in hooker and proved himself an intelligent player who always knew where he had to get the ball to.

Aaron Mawhinney – Started the season at lock and has been on the bench due to injury. But he wants to be out there with the boys and always gives 100 per cent. Put him anywhere and he will do the job … but he is the only player to go through the season scoreless.

Simon Bayley – Comes of the bench to play prop. He’s been moved from full back – thrown in the deep end – and that’s no small step. His leg speed and offload are massive assets for the Magpies.

Jed Herbert – another player sidelined with injury and it’s a pity, because he and Mylecharane teamed up to just about be last season’s top-scoring combination. A handy player the Magpies might hope to retain for senior football.

Farren Lamb – A handy utility who has been outstanding for the Magpies. A wiling worker who always puts 100 per cent in. His support play is invaluable and don’t underestimate him, he is a very strong lad. Let’s not forget he scored the match-winning try against Macquarie. 

Bailey Bray (aka Mud Dog) – he’s been thrown in the deep end just about every week and he always delivers without a complaint. Light on his feet and solid in defence. He’s moved from outside back to front row and never looked back.