Almost 12 months on from grand final ecstasy, Shepparton was dealt a heartbreaking Goulburn Valley League preliminary final loss by Echuca yesterday.
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The reigning premiers came within grasp of making three straight deciders in a row, but were defeated by six points at Deakin Reserve.
After a tough season that involved copious amounts of injuries to regular senior starters and the coaching change mid-season, the Bears fought bravely to reach a preliminary final.
Interim coach Troy King said he was proud of the performance of his side in a year that brought plenty of adversity.
"I'm just super proud, but unfortunately we just couldn't grab the chocolates today," King said.
"The last couple of months have been tough, we've had our fair share of injuries and a change of coach mid-year.
"We had five changes in today's side which always is hard not having the side jell together.
"But we finished the year off strongly and I couldn't fault their efforts, they gave it their all."
It was an uphill battle for the Bears from the get-go, with Echuca using the breeze to the Harold St end.
The Murray Bombers led at quarter-time by 22 points and were a couple of goals away from closing the premiership door on Shepparton, but the Bears found a way
The spark came from two goals in a minute from Anthony Andronaco and Jordan McGregor, as Shepparton clawed its way back into the contest.
From there all the way up until the final siren, the game ebbed and flowed as both sides fought for ascendancy.
"It was a brutal game and we always knew it was going to be," King said.
"And they're a very good team with their forwards, midfield and backline — they're strong across the board."
King revealed his message to the playing group after the loss, saying ''one thing we couldn't question was their efforts''.
"They just kept putting their body on the line and if anything, our decision-making let us down," he said.
"But to do all that and come so close — it hurts."
Although it is devastating missing out on the chance to go back-to-back for Shepparton and its supporters, the club is set to be a big player again next season.
Led by composed youngster Orien Kerr, the Bears have a number of talented teenagers rising through the ranks who all got a taste of final experience
"Bucky Kerr was always in and under and he's composed, he moves like a player beyond his years," King said.
"Gags (Jayden Gagliardi) was great and Matt (Pellegrino) is only 16 and he was superb on the wing.
"It's encouraging signs and it's just about holding on to these kids now."