The Central Vipers' faint hopes of a finals berth in the Pirtek NZRL National Premiership have been dashed by the Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions.
Representing Central Rugby League, which covers Hawke's Bay, Taranaki, Manawatu and Wanganui, the Vipers went into Sunday's game with a 2-2 record.
A try by Whanganui Boxon centreChe Barlow brought them level with the home team, 18-18, midway through the second half, to set up a tense finish.
However, a converted try to Stallions' winger Mounga Molisi sealed the win for the home side, 24-18, so they finished their season with a 3-3 record as they have the bye in the final round.
The Vipers only have themselves to blame as they turned down a couple of kickable penalties and squandered their attempts to get over the line for a four-pointer.
Barlow's Boxon teammate Gordon Karaitiana started on the bench as the reserve front rower.
Now unable to get into second place as the top two teams contest the final of the seven-team competition, the Vipers will finish their season against the Akarana Falcons in New Plymouth on October 11.
