Tigers overcome strong Magpies outfit

With an excellent crowd in attendance and a few good wins by our U/18’s, Reserves and Women’s team, the spotlight was going to be on the League team playing against a strong and determined Port Magpies outfit. The first quarter was exactly that, with Port scoring an early goal before we were able to get one back against the run of play. It took us a while to get into the game, but once we did, we were able to take a bit of control with it and go into quarter time a couple of points up.

With Port’s ruckman getting their first hand on the ball, our mids were required to work hard to win clearances and when we did we were able to give our forwards the chance to score. Half way through the quarter we managed to kick a couple of goals clear but allowed them to get one back before half time. Our backline was holding up well and Port were making it hard for us to get through their zone, but patience paid off and when we got through we looked dangerous.

The third quarter was one of our better quarters for the season and we were able to score off the back of a couple of outstanding defensive efforts from Toby Pink. We moved the ball well and provided our forwards some good 1v1 opportunities. Lachie Hosie and Liam McBean were dangerous in 1v1 contests and our backs were holding up well. Unfortunately we allowed Port to score three late goals in the third quarter after we took a four goal lead, and we went into ¾ time break with only a 7 point lead.

Port scored an early goal in the last quarter and we knew they weren’t going to give up, so we had to find a way to get our hands on the ball. I was pleased with the way we were able to grind out the last quarter and kick a couple of goals clear to finally win by 10 points.

It was a great spectacle and an even contest between two teams who love to play against each other. The support of our members and the noise that you make creates a fantastic atmosphere for our playing group and they enjoy playing here in front of you.

Another big challenge lies ahead this week, with North  looking to get back on the winner’s list after losing a close one against the Eagles. Saturday 1:10pm at Prospect is where it happens this weekend and I look forward to seeing you all there.

– Brett Hand, Senior Coach

Goal kickers: L. Hosie (5), L. McBean (3), J. Kluske, L. Partington, L. Reynolds, M. Snook

Trademark Player: Toby Pink