Game Report
Tigers Black vs. Tigers White
18th August 2007


Raleigh NC - A great day of Aussie Rules football took place recently when the NC Tigers held an impressive intra-club game. Over 35 participants enjoyed the fast pace, great skills, and trying conditions (heat) August 18th. The clash was between Black (wearing the traditional Black & Gold jerseys) and White (wearing the new alternate uniform with a White & Gold pattern). Victor Jessop took control of the Black team, while his coaching colleague Jason Heathcote took the reigns of the White team. Both teams were evenly matched, with a mixture of experience and youth, Tiger and collegiate players, as well as new participants, on both rosters. As the mercury reached 100 degrees, the game begun.

Black started strong with great play from Blacks' core running group out of the middle. They got the early lead and intended to stay there all day. After a couple of wayward plays from both teams early on, each team settled down and some great passages of play led to quick goals. The scores stayed close most of the first half, but Black was always able to edge, and stay, in front.

At half time Jessop urged his players to continue being in front during contests and going hard for the ball. White's coach Heathcote asked his players to dig deep and find some further inner strength. Both teams were exhausted and the on field temperature was well over 100 degrees by then. Regardless of the temperature, the second half was sure to provide some thrilling football.

The White team moved some players into different positions and had almost instant success. A quick goal brought the lead to within reach of the White team. Goals were traded back and forth. Both teams showed great control of the ball and a high quality in their disposal. The dry, hot, day provided players with the chance to take many aerial marks and the taller key position players took full advantage of it. The third quarter seemingly lasted forever as both teams never conceded and battled it out until the siren blew. The fourth quarter became a test of endurance and attrition. It was truly a great sign for the Tigers club, and a clear announcement to the league, that all Tigers players were able to put on such a great show for all four quarters. Even deep in the forth quarter, players were diving for balls, throwing themselves into packs reaching for the ball. No one gave up, everyone kept playing to the final siren. The quality of play was exceptional and something to build upon in the lead up to the National Championships in October. A great day was had by all, spectators and players alike, but the Black team ran out winners.

Final Score: Tiger Blacks 13.11.(89) def. Tiger Whites 8.8.(56)
Goal kickers:
Tiger Blacks - Coysh 3, McCallister 3, A. Plumley 3, Lee 2, Harvey, Miller
Tiger Whites - Casey 3, Duncan, J. Heathcote, Hewitt, Morris, Tart