Coaches Yolande Isedale and Natalie Thompson said they were proud of the effort displayed by the Highlanders in the difficult circumstances.

The team lost 2-0 to the South Coast on Friday night, before 1-0 and 2-1 losses on Saturday and a 3-1 loss to Bathurst on Sunday morning.

The loss against Bathurst means the Southern Highlands should be relegated to B division for next year’s championships.

It’s not all bad news for the Highlanders, coaches Isedale and Thompson pointed out that it was a young team for the age group and ninceo f the 12 players are eligible to play in the under-18s again next year.

The team lost in form midfielder Cindy Garard for the entire weekend to injury early in the first match, while Robertson’s Jaime Bow succumbed to illness and was unable to play on the Saturday.

The losses meant the Highlanders had only the bare 11 players and, as such, fatigue set in earlier than expected.

“At this level it is important to make the most of your chances,” Isedale said.

“The future looks bright after stand out performances from some of the younger players.

Bowral midfielder Belinda McNaught played well all weekend, really stepping up against her more experienced opponents.”

Mittagong defender Rebecca Cross was voted the players player.