Instead it was Rockdale Illinden who lifted the premiers trophy for the first time in the club's history, a 2-1 victory over North Shore seeing the side finish on top of the table.

With a 5-2 win over Manly, the Wolves finished level on points with Rockdale, one goal behind on differential.

While disappointed to miss out on the premiership, Wollongong coach Luke Wilkshire said it will motivate the side to lift the champions trophy in two weeks time.

"It's disappointing with the hard work that's gone into it," Wilkshire said.

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"The second half we were much better, we spoke about that at halftime, the first half wasn't good enough.

"I talk all the time about little details from training, concentration all the time, on every pass, every touch, how crucial they are, and it showed.

"We lose the premiership by one goal."

Marcus Beattie was the star for the Wolves, the attacker scoring a hat-trick.

Josh Bingham added a double, including an 85^th minute penalty.

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The side pushed hard for a sixth goal, however Manly held firm in the dying minutes.

Wollongong were left to rue the two goals conceded, the second coming after defender Nick Littler tripped over with the ball at the back.

With form heading into the semi-finals, Beattie is determined to find the back of the net in the next two weeks.

"I've had that many chances this year, so it's good to finally put some on the board and hopefully a few more in the finals," Beattie said.