The Diggers played host to the competition front-running Narooma Lions on Saturday and were kept quiet in front of goals to go down 19-21-135 to 3-3-21.

Simon Mackie was in complete control in front of the goals as he kicked to double figures for the Lions with 10 goals to his name. 

Merimbula’s efforts were shared as Jedd Martyn, John Simos and Scott Richmond each kicked a single goal.

The Lions showed their exceptional pace in the opening quarter as they shot out to 42 points with six goals and a half-dozen behinds, while the Diggers responded with a solitary goal. 

The Diggers rallied in the second quarter to contain the Lions to one goal, while kicking two of their own before the main break. 

However, the guests ran rampant in the final two periods, notching up another six goals each in the third and fourth.  

On the back of the result, the Diggers will end their 2017 season in fifth place, just outside finals contention this year. 

The development grade Diggers also suffered a loss in their final round and will fall outside finals contention at the bottom of the ladder. 

The club’s debut women’s side will not get to play finals, but secured two wins and finished above the Bega Bombers in their fledgling season. 

The minor semi-final will be held at Tathra’s Lawrence Park this Saturday with senior play from 11.50am. 

The major semi-final will be held on September 2 at Narooma.