Portland v South Gambier at South on 17-7
Under 18's
The unbeaten Portland took on third - placed South and the first quarter showed that there no easy kicks to be gained for either team, both of whom committed costly indiscretions. Portland edged to a 2 lead at the first break, but this was quickly eroded by South who dominated possession early in the 2nd term. Poor dissposal was hampering the visitors,, with South quickly seizing on these mistakes and making the Tigers pay. So much that so, Portland was in arears at half time for the first time this season( by 1 point). Despite the wind assistance in the 3rd quarter, Portland again struggled to get any momentum going. It was evident that the basic skills performed so well earlier in the season, were not as polished under the intense pressure exerted by their opponents. The margin was 4 points Portland' s way at the last break, but would it prove to be enough. The answer was an emphatic no, as the hosts monopolised possession in the last term to record a well- deserved victory and sent Portland tumbling to their first defeat of the season. Better players were Kyle Shepherd, Delwyn Beavis, the Finnigan Bros, Nathan Haylock and Eathan Blacksell.
Final Scores : Portland 7- 5- 47
South Gambier 8- 9 =57
Reserves
The Reserves combination took on the powerful South team and quickly found themselves under the pump. Moving the ball quickly and decisively, South raced to a 5 goal lead, a buffer which they maintained throughout the game. To Portland's credit, they didn't capitulate and maintained a fierce attack on the footy. For an undermanned unit, the Tigers put in a valiant effort and responded well to the pressure exerted by opposition. Best players were listed as Beau Bentley, Trenton Johnston, Patrick Mahon, Adam Leishman, Kyle Richardson and Lucas Mibus.
Final Scores: Portland 11-11 =78
South Gambier 16- 8 =104
Seniors
Kicking with tha aid of a stiffening breeze, Portland burst away and held a 5 goal lead, at the first break. Despite squandering a couple of chances the Tigers controlled the ball and their pace had South floundering. Maintaining their intensity, Portland made South work hard for their goals in the second term and at the major break, the visitors had the cushion of a 2 goal lead. The third quarter saw the Tigers play some of their best footy for some time. Relishing the fine conditions, some of the skills were from the silk department and coming into the final term, the lads in the Black and Gold enjoyed a lead of nearly 8 goals. In the last quarter, South came out firing and booted a couple of quick ones and half-way through a gripping laast quarter, they had halved the deficit and Portland's nerves were starting to jangle. But the visitors steeled themselves and held on to win an enthralling encounter. Best players were M.England, J.Stiles, J.Holt, J.Imbi, Rhys Egan, Daniel Falcone.
Final Scores : Portland 13- 16=94
South Gambier 8- 8 =56
Last Modified on 18/07/2010 17:00