TAMWORTH FC have done their chances of winning back-to-back Premier League titles no harm by winning Saturday's major semi-final.
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Taking on North Armidale at Scully Park, the reigning premiers proved too strong for their challengers, storming home to a 3-0 victory.
The win means FC will progress straight into the Premier League grand final on September 22 and have next weekend off.
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FC coach Greg Bartlett said he was pleased with his side's defensive effort.
"It was a good win that was set up by a ripping goal by Troy Hearfield, a great goal from Ryan Davidson and an own-goal," Bartlett told the Leader.
"I was very happy with how we were able to control the temp of the game, especially because North Armidale challenged all day.
"Our defence proved pretty strong, which I think was the difference at the end of the day."
Despite the 3-0 scoreline, Bartlett believes "there is still some room for improvement" in his side's offence.
"It's hard to be too critical after a 3-0 win, but there is still some stuff we can work on," he said.
"At times we didn't fully capitalise on our chances and in a final that can really cost you.
"It is a small issue, but it is certainly something we will look to work on leading into the grand final."
Bartlett said the reward of having next weekend off would be a major benefit to his side.
"We have a couple of guys like Matt Gardner and Ryan Davidson, who are carrying some slight niggles," he said.
"I think Matt has a bit of a foot injury, while Ryan has had some issues with his knee.
"So those guys will certainly benefit from the week of, that's for sure."
Bartlett said his side would "look to prepare like we normally do" over the next two weeks.
"I don't think we will focus too much on who we are playing, if we can focus on doing what we need to do well, then we should hopefully be competitive."