Eden Tigers Brand Sun

18's in disappointing loss

July 18th 2010 by Dave Evelyn

After last Sundays disappointing effort against Cooma, post match discussions ( a post mortem in this case...) included looking for a suitable adjective to describe the Tigers'game. Vapid was the best we could come up with.

In a game with so much at stake- a top 3 position and a chance to build a solid platform moving into the finals- the Neil Rankin Builders sponsored Eden side never really performed with the intensity and desire that such an occasion demanded, much to the chagrin of the good crowd on hand.

The game started with Cooma getting an early penalty and scoring in the ensuing set for 6-0.Eden tackled into touch on the first tackle, then two consecutive penalties to Cooma before try no 2. 12-0.Eden fails to capitalise on a try scoring chance dropping the ball on the second tackle, Cooma score again. 18-0. Eden drop ball on second tackle on Cooma line, dubious penalty for high tackle, Cooma penalty, Cooma try 24-0. Eden kick, drop ball Cooma score again and its 30-0!!!!!

A late try by an unstoppable Cory Stewart put Eden's only points on the board and it was30-6 at the break.

Coach Mick Wykes was in a quandary at half time- what to say to the team after such a sad display? Instructions were to get back to basics- hold the ball and look for better field position even early in the count.

The second half began on a more encouraging note with the home side dominating early possession, and after Eden received the first two penalties in the half Jamie Mohammed touched down. Dylan Fletcher's conversion made the score a slightly respectable 30-12.

Captain Toby Timms was doing his best to inspire the team with some fearless running and devastating defence, and when Dylan Fletcher finally split the defence and ran 40 m to score a great Tiger try, which he converted, all of a sudden it was game on at 30-18.

When Eden received their next penalty and went on a sustained attack, Dylan Wheeler crossed out wide and brought the scores even closer at 30-22.

Just when the Tigers fans were getting (a bit) excited Cooma regained composure and scored two quick tries to take the score to 42-22.

Andrew Evelyn burst over for a late Eden try for 42-28 before Cooma crossed right on full time after consecutive penalties to finish the scoring, Cooma emerging victorious 46-28.

One of the highlights of the match was the excellent goal kicking of Cooma's Zac Smith who kicked 6/7, with several from the sideline, only missing his last kick which hit the post.

Over the past several games the Eden side has shown glimpses of form which led many to consider them a real chance of winning the premiership, Again on Sunday, we saw flashes of brilliance, but little commitment to doing the hard work and playing smart.

Watching the way the team went about their work it is apparent that we have the skills in our squad to enjoy ultimate success this season, but we need to be much more focussed when we take the field. A lot could possibly be achieved if we can get everyone to training.

Tigger