Tigers’ time arrives
Balmain Tigers scored a sensational double victory away to Hills Brumbies on Saturday night, winning Under 20s 3-1 before claiming a smashing 4-0 First Grade domination. Check out John Sowden’s fantastic images here.
Under 20s got the ball rolling with a deserved 3-1 victory. Despite conceding the first goal (I was told), Balmain stormed back and took control of the match with three goals, none of which I saw (too focused on our game/trying to navigate). Can any players or supporters provide some highlights in the comments section below?
First Grade destroyed Hills. Two goals in either half was a fair reflection of the game, as Balmain secured their first win since last year’s Grand Final.
Dave McPartling made the all-important breakthrough, guiding a divine first-time volley into the net off a Tom Sowden back post cross. Lorenzo Merlino might have had a penalty saved, but he made amends moment before half-time. In behind the defence, Jem Richardson slotted the ball past the keeper only to see it bounce back off the post. Lozza made it count with the rebound.
Though it was 2-0 to Balmain at half-time, Hills had two glorious opportunities in the first half, one which involved three goal line clearances from the desperate Tigers. The Tigers knew that there was work to do before they could claim victory.
Their work brought reward early in the second half. Balmain repeatedly stormed through gaping holes down Hills’ left, and half clearances from Hills defenders were punished twice. Craig Andrews struck to make it three, then one of Craig’s midfield colleagues notched the all-importance fourth goal before going insane celebrating.
The final half-hour brought plenty of action but no more goals, and a late appearance from Tom Wylob. Tom – is that your first grade debut?
Next week things are only getting hotter, with a clash against old rivals UNSW. Game on!
