It was the AFL Cairns reigning premiers versus the bottom-placed side at Griffiths Park on Saturday, but for three quarters of the game, the scoreboard gave little indication as to which team was which.
The Cairns Saints waited until the final term to kick away from the Port Douglas Crocs, with a three-goal spurt 10 minutes after the restart propelling the defending champions to a 23.8 (146) to 16.10 (106) victory.
Saints forward and assistant coach Matt Walsh, who finished with nine goals, said he and his teammates were expecting a tough afternoon.
"It was a real see-sawing game for three quarters. It was very physical and they really took the game to us," he said. "They are a young side and have plenty of run but in the end, I think it was our experience that got us home.
"We have a tendency to finish pretty strong, which is what we were able to do yesterday (Saturday)."
While the Crocs have a young list, there is undeniable quality within their senior ranks.
Former St Kilda player Caydn Beetham was a standout for the Crocs in the centre of the park on Saturday, while newcomer Aaron Castles, fresh from a frosty Tasmanian winter, impressed on debut.
At times the Crocs looked capable of pulling off the upset of the season but when threatened, Saints knew how to respond.
Read more at: http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2009/06/29/49201_local-sport-news.html
Last Modified on 24/07/2009 09:59