SO close, yet so far.

That's the story for Wests Tigers, finishing ninth on 28 points one point from eighth-placed Parramatta and missing the NRL finals.

The agonising point will probably drive Tigers' players, coach Tim Sheens and fans mad all off-season.

The Tigers finished the season thumping the Bulldogs 34-12 at Sydney Football Stadium on Friday.

There was brilliant, classy and free-spirited attacking football displayed by Benji Marshall, Robbie Farah, Chris Lawrence and Tim Moltzen.

There was raw power from Keith Galloway, Todd Payten and Gareth Ellis in the pack.

Ellis has been the most impressive and durable Tiger all year.

The British international forward was outstanding in his debut NRL season.

Farah said at the post-match press conference he cannot wait until 2010.

``I think there is a different feeling after this year, I know myself, I can't wait for next year,'' Farah said.

``I am optimistic that even though we have missed the eight, we have taken a step in the right direction for next year. I know we are a better side than where we finished.''

Several narrow losses counted against in the Tigers in the final analysis.

The 23-22 round eleven loss to Souths at the Sydney Cricket Ground and 26-24 loss to the Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium are two games that spring to mind. Several Tigers have played their final games for the club.

Dean Collis and John Morris are joining Cronulla, Dene Halatau has signed with the Bulldogs and Shannon Gallant has signed with North Queensland.