Tigers roar to victory, break 12 year streak against Crocs in thrilling clash

The Tigers’ untamed hunger for the footy and their relentless contest work around the ground ultimately secured their 90-75 victory, sending a statement to the competition.

David Denboer’s (21 disposals and eight tackles) midfield prowess provided the Tigers with a cunning edge, while dynamic small forwards Kevin Canendo (16 disposals and nine tackles), Fitzroy Greenwool (23 disposals and five tackles), Billy Welch (two goals and five marks) and Philemon Baira (seven tackles) constantly kept the Crocs’ defence on their toes with their speed and ferocity in the contest.

Tigers coach Sam Hughes was thrilled with his side’s performance.

“The midfield as a whole was really strong today,” he said

“Dave loves a contest and he’s hard at the footy, but to the Crocs credit, that’s something they’ve been really strong at over the years.

“For us we made a focus in the off-season to get depth through our midfield, James Bennett, Lewis George and Isaac Sinnott all battled hard for four quarters.”

The Tigers’ victory was fuelled by a stellar performance from their transformed defenders turned key forwards, captain Darcy Keast and Rory Tarlington.

Keast’s leadership was pivotal, contributing three goals and displaying his versatility by moving to the backline in the fourth quarter.

Tarlington’s five-goal haul proved too much for the Crocs to handle.

Particularly after crucial full-back Dylan Winton suffered a severe Achilles injury in the second quarter, potentially ruling him out for the season dealing a huge blow to the Crocs.

Crocs were plagued by injuries before the match started with star forward Kye Chapple, Jared Petrenko (calf), Peter Magee (calf), Brodie Arriola, Jackson Hopkins and Dillon Coates all out.

Crocs coach Nick Salter’s shouldered the scoring burden with a three-goal effort, while captain Ben McPhee (27 disposals, eight clearances and eight tackles) secured best on ground for a gutsy performance in the midfield.

“McPhee had an absolutely outstanding captain’s game,” Crocs assistant coach Lee Staple said.

“Tackled hard, he’s a complete player and a complete person.

“Brett McKeown stood up with his role in the half-forward line in the second half.”

Crocs ruck Ethan McCullough had 29 hitouts and 25 disposals.

Half-forwards let the Crocs down, particularly in the first half.

They were often too close to the contest or too far away, struggling to find the right balance. Tigers exploited the gaps left open, which resulted in the Crocs defence getting smashed when the Tigers transitioned forward.

Crocs young talents Brae Agrums and Cayden Stabenow made promising debuts, both kicking a goal.

Their side mounted a late comeback kicking the final four goals of the game but were unable to close the gap entirely.

Tigers were also missing key players Dan Jackson, Ben Deluca, Matt Hallandal, Jonah George and Alick Nai.

The Tigers found strength in long-time servants of the club Jahmahl Jenkins-Clive and the recalled ruckman Travis Thorne (11 hitouts and 5 clearances). Their contributions were instrumental.

“Thorney and (Jenkins-Clive) have been through a lot with this footy club, they’ve stuck fat through tough times and it meant a lot to them to get over the Crocs who have been a powerhouse for so long.” Hughes said.

Defensively, the Tigers put up an impenetrable wall led by Cooper Cartledge (34 disposals and 10 marks), Hayden Spiller and Will Peterson, making it difficult for the Crocs to find their way through.

In the end, it was the Tigers’ relentless pursuit of victory and their ability to capitalise on opportunities that secured their long-awaited triumph. As the final siren sounded, it signalled the end of a 12-year drought against the Crocs.

Hawks unveil premiership flag in style

Manunda Hawks unveiled their 2023 AFLW Cairns premiership flag with an emphatic victory over the South Cairns Cutters at Cazalys Stadium.

The stage was set for Hawks to stamp their authority on the competition and they did not disappoint as they soared to a commanding 34-3 victory over their rivals.

Soyraya Cook emerged as a strong target for the Hawks, showcasing her prowess in the forward line with two goals.

Leading the charge was none other than captain Jennifer Robinson, whose seamless transition to the backline from midfield over the off-season proved to be a strategic masterstroke.

Midfielder Tiarne Sparks said Robinson’s performance was huge.

“We’ve got a little bit of a different structure this season,” she said.

“Kareena (White) was our leading goalkicker and Robinson was pivotal in the middle but they’ve both shifted to the backline.

“They’re such versatile players and against a high-impact team they formed a really trustworthy wall in defence.”

Robinson proved herself as a force to be reckoned with on the field, marshalling the defence and sweeping up opposition attacks.

Tayla O’Dea and Tiarne Sparks dominated the midfield with their ferocious tackles and relentless pressure, stifling the Cutters’ every move.

“I’m very defensive and I love tackling and providing pressure, but I want to develop more of an (offensive) game.” Sparks said.

“Melissa Kelly was fantastic in the ruck, Alyssa-Mcmillan Sisopha and Abby Gibson also played really well.”

Despite facing an uphill battle, the Cutters never wavered in their resolve, with key players Precious Simeona and Tatiana Finlan showcasing moments of sheer brilliance throughout the game.

Kylie Banu, the heart and soul of the Cutters, celebrated her 100th game with unwavering determination and grit.

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Amid the Hawks jubilation, Lusa Wagia’s and Mia Beki were also standout performers.

As the final siren sounded, the Hawks celebrated their victory in style, unfurling their hard-earned 2023 premiership flag in front of their fans.

gyan-reece.rocha@news.com.au

Originally published as Tigers roar to victory, break 12 year streak against Crocs in thrilling clash