The Tweed Coast Tigers have snuck home by 2 goals in a thriller at Ballina's Fripp oval on Saturday.
With 5 of the Tiger's run on team out for this round it was always going to be a big test of the Tiger's depth in what is proving to be be one of the hardest away games in the league.
Ballina are a team on the rise, their squad has improved from last season, as has their performance on the field and the final scoreboard was a credit to their improvements.
Ballina came out of the blocks on fire whilst the Tiger's seemed to struggle to find any of the rythm and on ball pressure that has seen them smash all comers in the last 6 weeks. The Bombers led at the first break 2.4 - 16 to 1.1 - 7, if not for some inaccuracy the Bombers could of been further out in front. A free flowing second quarter saw both teams kick 3 goals and the Bombers lead by 2 pts at the main break.
A half time razz by Captain Jai saw the Tiger's lift in intensity and kick three goals into the wind to the bombers 2 goals to take a slender lead at the 3rd break.
The final quarter was a cracker with the ball rebounding from half back line to half back line and quality backline pressure defusing attacking raids with both teams missing the big sticks which could of seen them easily win the match. Special mention to Westy and Timmy who covered the huge open spaces to put pressure on the Ballina forwards. Timmy flew high for a speccy that is in the running for Mark of the Year.
In the end it was the Tigers combination of Roundy rucking to Arnold, who delivered some quality service to big Wilson who banged home 2 goals to seal the win. Ash continued his good on ball form to snag a last quarter goal and finish with 4 for the day to take the game out of Ballina's hands.
Credit to both teams who fought hard all day in a tough but fair encounter. The Bomber's were unlucky not to claim the prize scalp of the front running Tiger's and have declared they are a real threat this season.
Final Score
Tiger's 10.16 - 76 d Bombers 9.10 - 64
Tiger's Goal Kickers
Wilson - 4
Ash - 4
Roundy - 1
Bolty - 1
Team Awards
Players Player - Westy
Hooked on Seafood - Timmy
Potty Cellars - Jai
Potty Bowls Club - Ash
Thanks to all the Tiger's supporters who made the journey south. Also big thanks to the support staff who do a great job of getting the Tiger's on the paddock and keeping them their. Cheers.
Note: These are the opinion's of the author and may not reflect the club or it's committee.
Last Modified on 21/06/2010 14:44