Tigers’ top spot destiny in own hands after ‘finals-like’ win over Bombers
It was billed as a virtual minor premiership playoff, and the battle of the TSL’s two best sides didn’t disappoint.
Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Kingborough put themselves in poll position for the minor premiership, but both teams would be bullish about their flag hopes after some late heroics from Jack Tomkinson steered the Tigers to a thrilling 8.10 (58) to 7.11 (53) win over North Launceston at UTAS Stadium.
The clash was billed as a virtual battle for top spot, and subsequent hosting rights when the TSL’s top two sides meet in a qualifying final.
But in a high intensity, high pressure match which had all the aspects of September, the Tigers’ size and experience at either end of the ground proved just enough to topple the Bombers.
The last time the Tigers ventured north they lost by four points, and Saturday’s result again highlighted there’s a struck match between them.
Kingborough have a bye next week, but a win over Clarence in the last round would guarantee them top spot.
The Tigers are now two wins plus percentage ahead of the Bombers, who must win their last two games and hope Kingborough stumbles against the Roos to grab top spot.
Tomkinson’s ruck partnership with Marcus Gardner against Bombers skipper Alex Lee was a highlight, and the Tigers duo kicked two goals apiece when resting forward.
Bombers coach Brad Cox-Goodyer was quiet for most of the match, but booted two goals early in the fourth quarter to give his side a three-point lead.
However two contested marks and composed finishes from 45-metres by Tomkinson was enough to steer his side home.
The Tigers’ defence also showed why they’ve been the benchmark all year, with Ben Donnelly, Will Clifford and Lachie Gadomski playing strongly.
“To have a chance to play a home final if we take care of business in our last game, every team plays their home ground well,” Tigers coach Trent Baumeler said.
“We feel we play it well, and it suits our style of footy, today felt like it had that finals intensity.”
Baumeler indicated he trusts Tomkinson and Gardner to alternate when they need to in the ruck and up forward.
“We’re in the fortunate position of having two A-grade ruckman. Marcus would be the starting ruckman in nearly every other team,” Baumeler said.
“They’ve got a nice combination in terms of who goes in or out (of the ruck) but also a good understanding of momentum. Like getting Jack forward to kick those goals, but also getting him back into centre bounce when he’s feeling good about himself.
“They’re awesome and easy to coach.”
While the Tigers are looking to go one better after getting beaten in last year’s grand final, Bombers coach Brad Cox-Goodyer said his young side would learn plenty from the heat of Saturday’s contest.
Kingborough was able to curb North Launceston’s running game for the majority of the game. Their pressure forced the Bombers to kick long inside 50 for much of the day, and their key defenders did the rest.
“Sometimes a win can cover up the things you didn’t quite get right and a loss will highlight them,” Cox-Goodyer said.
“The last quarter we weren’t able to get the ball to ground in our defensive 50, and Ben Donnelly killed us with his marking. Then Tomkinson takes a couple of contested marks and kicks truly.
“That’s a finals-type game though, moments like that can win or lose it for you. The guys know now they’re in the fight and they can compete with the best team, we just have to take our opportunities better.
“A lot of our guys haven’t played in an atmosphere like that where each possession is highlighted and the moments are a bit bigger, it will be good learning for them.”
KINGBOROUGH 2.1 2.4 5.7 8.10 (58) def NORTH LAUNCESTON 2.4 2.8 3.10 7.11 (53)
Goals: North Launceston – Brad Cox-Goodyer 2, Oliver Dean 2, Declen Chugg, Oscar Mansell, Harvey Griffiths; Kingborough – Jack Tomkinson 2, Marcus Gardner 2, Tyler Carter 2, Max Collidge, George O’Neill
Best: North Launceston – Jack Avent, Declen Chugg, Ben Simpson, Fletcher Bennett, Connor Young, Blade Sulzberger; Kingborough – Jack Tomkinson, George O’Neill, Ben Donnelly, Lachlan Clifford, Lachlan Gadomski, James Webb
Crisis time: Roo fury over NTFA demotion bid
The Deloraine Kangaroos are hopping mad after a failed bid to demote them from the inaugural NTFA Premier League has left league officials scrambling for answers.
Inside the plans to renew north against south footy rivalries
The evolution of Tasmanian football is almost complete with the north against south rivalries set for a new chapter. Here’s what we know with the changes close to completion.