Eden Tigers Brand Sun

Under 18's Run Out of Steam
Eden 22 Bega 36

July 3rd 2011 by Dave Evelyn

The young Tigers faced up against Bega last Saturday in what promised to be an absorbing struggle. Unfortunately due to Group 16 draw deficiencies the side were without the contingent of Under 16's theyusually rely on to field a side because the 16's play on Saturdays. So we lined up against a Bega side with a full bench with 11 players. The Bega side had agreed to field even numbers to start the game until our reinforcements arrived.

The game started with both teams playing with discipline and completing their sets. Bega were eventually pulled up for a forward pass and Eden's attack swung into action with Dylan Fletcher and Andrew Evelyn putting on a beautiful move down the left side that led to Edens first try scored by Dylan and Eden took and early 6-0 lead.In the next set Eden's Pete Dunstan scored another good try after lead up from Jamie Mohamed. Fletchers conversion was unsuccessful giving the visitors a 10-0 lead.The Eden boys were clearly more skilful than the Bega side, and this was further demonstrated when Andrew Evelyn, playing his best game of the year, stormed over for Eden's third try after Jacob Young had tackled a Bega player into touch on their first tackle in the previous set.

The Eden side began to tire significantly, and when Bega began running with 13 players the tide soon turned. In the last four possessions of the first half Bega scored three quick tries to have the scores level at 16 all at the break.

The second half began with both sides competing for field position. Pete Dunstan was again prominent with some rousing defence, and continues to improve and make a significant contribution to the side. Eden lost possession on the first tackle and then were penalised for a strip and Bega promptly scored. They crossed again twice in quick succession and suddenly the Tigers were down 30-16. The Eden lads were out on their feet and were still giving absolutely everything. They were well rewarded when Fletcher scored and then converted to take the score to 30-22. Bega scored last to bring the final score to 36-22.

Again this team has shown that they are the match of any side in the competition but they cant compete with only 11 or 12 players. We rely on our under 16 players and only Joe Stewart was able to make it this weekend. A great effort by all the boys and hopefully we can get a full squad for next weeks home game that commences at 1100 next Sunday.