MORISSET High School was defeated 18-12 by Macksville High School in extra time of a thrilling Buckley Shield rugby league quarter-final at Morisset on Friday.
A try to second-rower Tyrone Henderson was converted by captain and halfback Zac Ross early in the second half to set up a 6-all deadlock at the end of regular time.
Morisset scored first in extra time through hooker Daniel Day, and the conversion gave the home team a 12-6 advantage.
But the visitors proved too strong, running in two converted tries to clinch a berth in the final four of the under-14 statewide knockout.
Morisset coach Joshua Lyden praised his entire squad and said fullback Henry Fui, prop Tyrone Amey, along with Ross and Day, were among his team's best.
"Our team are all good mates who played for each other," Mr Lyden said.