The
Tigers came out firing, booting the opening three goals of the game
before Hurstbridge was even able to get on to the scoreboard. The pace
of the Tiwi Islanders, and their ability to handle the ball cleanly at
ground level, was the difference in the opening stages of the match.
As
the first half progressed, Hurstbridge were able to have a greater
influence on the game and the speed at which it was played, and they
were able to bring the margin back to 4 points at the half-time break
with the scores reading Imalu 5.2 (32) to Hurstbridge 4.4 (28).
During
half-time, Imalus coach was pleased with his sides work with the ball
and urged his players to continue to run as a team and support the ball
carrier, rather than just bombing the ball long.
After
a tight start to the second half, the Tigers edged away towards the end
of the game and were able to get on top of Hurstbridge in their forward
50. A couple of marks and a free kick deep in their attack, saw the
Imalu Tigers finish with the last set of goals for the match and pull
away to a three goal victory, with the game finishing Imalu 10.5 (65)
to Hurstbridge 7.7 (49).
After
the match, the great spirit of the game carried through with all
players shaking hands and joining together in a circle for the three
cheers, and a rendition of the Tigers club song, not surprisingly Oh
were from Tigerland.
Both
Hurstbridge Football Club and the Imalu Tigers must be congratulated
for such a great event and a true showpiece of the leagues motto of
Communities Working Together. Tune in to the AFLs coverage of the
Dreamtime at the G game this Saturday night to see highlights of the
Tigers as they take on the West Vic Eels in the curtain raiser to the
Essendon and Richmond game.
Website Editor