A win to end the season was so close for the Sunshine Coast Stingrays yesterday.

After being 28-10 down in the second half against Souths, the ’Rays fought back to 31-29 behind with their year about to expire.

The referee blew a penalty and, after being told there was no time left, goalkicker Adam Dear was given the chance, about 40 metres out and not too far in from the sideline, to make it a fifth win for ’08.

Unfortunately for Dear and the Coast, the shot to win the game went wide.

“It pretty much sums up our year,” coach Glenn Panoho said.

“We’ve got so close in so many games.

“Deary was shattered and the boys were shattered.

“Maybe next year it will be a different story and we’ll win those close ones.”

The ’Rays ended the year with 25 points and in eighth position – the first time they have avoided the wooden-spoon.

Former Wallaby Morgan Turinui had his best game in Coast colours, including setting up an early try for Matt Little.

Souths led 14-10 after a first half which featured a 25-minute delay following as suspected serious injury to a player from the home side.