The Batemans Bay Tigers have won two junior premierships in Eden
The U12s and U14s brought home premiership shields to back up the success of the U18s girls.
The U12s finished in style with a 24-6 win over the Narooma Devils. The team was highly motivated, as they all wore wrist bands with the name of “Eli” – it was all about winning for their sick team mate Eli Chatfield.
In blustery conditions the Tigers nearly scored from the kick-off after a dynamic 60-metre run by Jackson Blake, which set the tone for a strong first half. Two tries to Jackson Blake, and one to captain Sam Taylor, saw the Tigers go to the half-time break up 12-0.
An early second-half try to Darnell Nye, converted by Addison Hansen, saw the lead build to 18, before a Narooma try mid-way through the half brought the score back to 18-6. A second try to Darnell Nye sealed the game with six minutes remaining.
Jackson Blake was named Man of the Match by the Group 16 selection committee. The win completed an undefeated season with success at the Bibbenluke preseason carnival and the Bega mid-season carnival.
The U14s also defeated the Narooma Devils by a score of 32-10.
The first 20 minutes was tight with some great defence from both sides separated only by two great solo tries from Matt Stewart in the 5th and 18th minutes, which he also converted.
After some sustained pressure, a pinpoint kick to the corner from Jerome Chatfield in the 22nd minute resulted in an exciting try to Denzel Carriage to have the Tigers ahead 16-0.
With only one minute left in the first half, Harry Rogan beat 5 or 6 defenders and ran 80 meters before finally being tackled just before the try line.
Flynn Kousal barged over from dummy half to give the Tigers a 20-0 lead at half time. The Bay Tigers spent the first 10 minutes of the second half camped in the Devils’ end of the field. Flynn Kousal crossed for his second try in the 36th minute to give the Tigers a safe 26-0 lead.
Liam Henry put the result beyond doubt 10 minutes later, and the Tigers could celebrate their victory. Narooma finished the game with two late tries for a final score of 32-10. Coach Justin Taylor was extremely proud of the boys for their effort and believed the Tigers defence was the difference.
“We spoke endlessly over the last three weeks that defence was going to be the difference in the big games, the boys’ line speed and heavy contact set up all our opportunities,” Taylor said.
All 18 players lifted and played great footy. Special mention to Matt Stewart and Captain Flynn Kousal.
Stewart was Man of the Match and also representitive player of the year. Kousal played a mighty game, whilst displaying great leadership throughout the final series.
