The game seemed destined to end in a 22-all draw when, right at the death, referee Liam Nicholls ruled that Wyong halfback Darren Nicholls had stripped the ball in a tackle right in front of the Wyong goalposts and 30 metres out.

Wentworthville halfback Luke Kelly kicked the winning points after the siren sounded.

Wyong football manager Matt Lavin said the Roos had chances to win the match, but lost their way in the shadows of full time.

Captain Mitch Williams was ultimately left to attempt a difficult field-goal shot from long range, but was targeted by fast-moving defenders. Williams was Wyong's best, but came in for some tough punishment from the Magpies defence.

"Mitch was tackled heavily throughout the match, some legal, but others late and questionable," Lavin said.

Wyong were particularly miffed by one tackle on Williams late in the match in which they allege the diminutive rake was struck in the mouth, but no penalty was forthcoming.

Wyong is convinced a penalty goal from the incident would have won them the match.

Halfback Nicholls again impressed for the Roos, crossing for two tries.

Wyong trailed 18-nil in the first half, and showed plenty of grit to work their way back into the contest.

The 9-4 penalty count against the Roos was telling.

Wyong take on North Sydney Bears at North Sydney Oval this Sunday at 4pm. The Roos are eighth on the NSW Cup ladder.