Earlier in the season, suggesting North Cairns could play finals footy seemed as likely as Julia Gillard running the country before the next election.
How times have changed.
The Tigers' ride to prominence has not been as rapid as Australia's newest Prime Minister but rather a gradual climb driven by the singular focus of qualifying for September.
Consecutive wins over Souths and reigning AFL Cairns Premiers Cairns Saints have moved the Tigers within four points of the fourth-placed Manunda Hawks. Fittingly, the two sides clash under lights at Cazalys Stadium tonight.
Tigers coach Wes Lord, who has been a key figure in his club's resurrection, said his players were aware of what was at stake against the Hawks. "We had a talk about it at training about what's on the line," he said. "We spoke about our starts and how important it is to get on top early and to try to control the game. We've got a few players out, which will make it a bit difficult, but the side we'll have on there will be more than capable."
It (self-belief) is growing and that;s picking things up on the training paddock as well."
The Tigers, who had the bye last week, will need their players fit and firing if they are to overcome the Hawk's line-up. With an almost ideal blend of wise heads and youthful exuberance at his disposal, Hawks coach Paul Griffiths has his team playing a brand of footy that has made the competition take notice.
Lord said the Hawks were one of the league's form sides. "They've been travelling really well and haven't had too many injuries," Lord said. "We're expecting a big show from them."
"I think we play a similar style of game but we'll be docusing more on the things we do well like moving the ball through the middle of the park."
The first bounce will be at 8:00pm, with the Reserves at 6:00pm.
In tomorrow's matches, ladder leaders Port Douglas host Centrals Trinity Beach, while Saints are at home to Cairns City Cobras. Both those games are at 3:00pm.
Last Modified on 29/10/2010 12:19