It was a nail biting Major Semi Final in Cargo on Sunday. The Tigers lead the scoreboard for the entire game until the last 40 seconds, where Eugowra snatched the win 22-20. The first 15 minutes of the game were quiet until Matty Mclean brought home a penalty kick for the Tigers bringing the score to 2-0. Eugowra scored the first try of the day but Canowindra’s Adam Micallef answered with a try for the Tigers, making the half time score 8-6 to Canowindra.
The second half saw Matty Mclean burst through the Eagles defence to score another try. However the Tigers defence was shortened with only 12 players on the field, leading to Eugowra sneaking in another try. Nick Willson also scored a try for the Tigers following a second penalty kick by Matty Mclean. The score for the remainder of the second half was 20-16, with Canowindra working hard to keep the Eagles out of their territory. It was a penalty in the last 2 minutes of the game that put Eugowra exactly where they wanted to be as they kicked for touch and scored from 20 out. Eugowra converted the try as the buzzer rang, leaving the Tigers devastated and the supports silent with shock. The Tigers should be extremely proud of themselves, Coach Dean Stanbury showed fantastic effort and his impact on the players has reflected in their games. On Friday Dean was awarded the Woodbridge Cup Coach Of The Year, well done Mr Stanbury! Anyone close to the team can see the respect shown to their Coach, trainers and mentors Paul Earsman, Barry Traves, Ken Willson, John Chittick and Mick Vitnell. These wise men have taught the boys not only how to excel in League, but also in life. Though this season is at an end, the Tigers will be roaring back next year. Congratulations Canowindra Tigers!
Thank you also to Sarah Isaacs for sending these reports in. It’s down to you that the Phoenix has such a detailed description of the League matches.