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Balmain welcomed the winless Auburn Stars to Birchgrove on Saturday, hoping to assert themselves at the head of the table. Two 4-0 victories later and the Tigers had banished the Stars to their biggest losses of the season. For the Tigers, it was the ideal preparation for a make or break trip to fellow contenders Kellyville next weekend.

While the Under 20s should be pleased with their 4-0 win, such was their domination they could have even won by more. Despite its solid return of four goals, the match also offered nominations for miss of the season, fluffed penalties and several wasted chances. Still, it was a resoundingly dominant and entertaining performance, and the four-goal margin was the largest yet for Auburn.

The Stars' goal was under siege early, with Hugo hitting the crossbar and Sasha sensationally blasting over from six yards with the open net at his mercy. It wasn't to prove costly though, as the Tigers soon moved in front from a Richardson free kick that the goalkeeper let dribble past him. Jem doubled the lead with his second, again pouncing on a keeper error from a Hugo shot to slot home from just yards out.

The second half was even more Balmain. Though Karl missed a penalty, Sasha was to atone for his earlier howler with a simple finish following some good lead-up play. The scoring was rounded out by Uri, who came on for his customary sealer with another fast break and finish. Though more chances were missed, Coach Kaltenegger's team were always entertaining with good performances across the whiteboard, in particular from the Dons Diego and David in midfield and sparkling substitute Owen. The Tigers can be satisfied with the victory that keeps them just one point off top spot.

First grade had it a bit tougher, but can be equally pleased with their result. Auburn coach Dingo sent out his side with one objective - hit it long - and for the first 30 minutes the Tigers struggled to find their feet. The referee, watched by a small army of inspectors, was blowing up even the most affectionate of love taps giving Auburn their best chances for a breakthrough. Fortunately, they weren't able to capitalise. A couple of narrow misses from dangerous Auburn freekicks finally woke the Tigers from their slumber, and before long the first goal arrived.

Danny's excellent corner found big Bonus in the middle, who buried a powerful header to put the Tigers one-up. Through to half-time and into the second period, the Tigers were still fighting for every inch. It definitely wasn't vintage football, but the boys remained disciplined and finally got their reward. The all-important second goal came from a beautiful flowing move climaxing in a Lozza lay-off to Tristan. The Basque youngster, under considerable pressure, blasted a 25 yarder past the goalkeeper's right hand for his first goal in first grade and one that broke Auburn's hearts.

At the point the Stars finally gave up their resistance and the Tigers were soon three-up. A pinpoint, bewitchingly-played long-range through ball from Muggsy ducked and dodged its way through the Auburn defence. It made it all the way to goal-poacher Ilias who slotted the ball calmly for a goal. There was still time for debut Dom to mark his first-grade debut with a sensational side volley from the top of the box after a perfect cross from Tristan.

Though the victory was hard-earned and provided an important boost to the goal-difference, there is still room for improvement for the Tigers. Looking ahead to next week's crunch match against fellow contenders Kellyville away at Bernie Mullane, the Tigers will have to take it up another gear to ensure we continue the season's solid start.

And look out punters at the Exchange - Captain Lozza has declared it a club night out next Saturday when we get back from Kellyville at around 10pm. Join us to hopefully celebrate another Tigers victory!