A Magpie miracle?

BERRY continue to bring back memories of their incredible 2004 run after downing Gerringong 20-18 in the minor semi-final at Berry Showground on Saturday.

In both 2004 and this year Berry survived a midweek playoff, with this year's side now on track for a repeat grand final appearance.

The Magpies will meet Shellharbour City at Mollymook Oval for a spot in decider after the Sharks went down 34-8 to Albion Park-Oak Flats in the major semi-final.

Despite an early penalty goal to Matt Gallagher, things didn't look good for the hosts when Jason White and elusive centre Lloyd Bowen crossed in short order for Gerringong to lead 10-2.

Berry struck back 25 minutes in after a mountain of possession allowed Berry's Stu Jamieson to score and reduce the deficit to two.

However, two penalty goals and a Peter Quine try gave Gerringong an 18-8 buffer at the break.

Magpies captain-coach Trent Burns scored in the 51st minute and brought the score back to 18-14.

Gerringong's Justin O'Hare was sin-binned soon after, but their defense held in the wake of a torrid penalty count against them.

Berry appeared to be out on their feet, but hung on before Lions Brad Watters and Justin O'Hare were binned for play-the-ball infringements with less than ten minutes left.

The two-man disadvantage proved fatal for the Lions, Adam Hayburn latching onto a lovely inside ball from Gallagher to score in the 78th minute and give Berry the victory.

Burns was ecstatic with the team's efforts.

"It was all built on courage, guts and determination, I'm stoked because the whole team stood up and did their job," he said.

Burns said he was not concerned about their opponents this weekend.

"We're looking forward to it " we'll turn up and no matter who we play our attitude will give us a good chance."