The Storm went into Saturday night’s preliminary final full of confidence, but were outplayed by a more determined Gisborne outfit.

“Gisborne wanted it more than us,’’ Wilson said.

“We didn’t start well and we were on the back foot from there.

“We couldn’t get our hands on the footy. Full credit to Gisborne, they were too good for us on the night.

“They deserved to go through and they’ll give Golden Square a good shake next week.”

Wilson said the fact the Storm made the finals for the first time in the club’s short history was a great stepping stone for 2013.

“We’re disappointed about the loss, but overall we’re happy with the season,’’ Wilson said. “The boys have come a long way this year.

“To finish third was a good effort and it shows we’re up there amongst the better sides.

“Gisborne showed us up in some areas and that’s what we’ve got to work on for next year.

“Hopefully, we can get one week further on next year.”

Wilson will coach the Storm again in 2013 and key trio Matthew Ladson, Tom Bartholomew and Jake Hall have signalled their intentions to stay with the club.

“We need to improve our leg speed through the middle for next year,’’ Wilson said.

“We’ve got some very good kids coming through as well.

“We’re not far away, that’s the exciting thing for the club.”

Clint Whitsed, the Storm’s inaugural playing coach, announced his retirement after the game on Saturday night.