Panthers unable to beat Tigers hot start

The Tigers travelled to Caloundra today to take on the Caloundra Panthers at Carter Park in another exciting game in the QFA Division 1 competition.

The Tigers have taken all before them but they are now definitely the hunted with every other team in the competition looking for their scalp.

It is in this backdrop that the Tigers cannot afford to let their guard down as they approach the second half of the season. The Panthers gave the Tigers a run for their money last round at the Den so they were wary about them on their home deck.

The Tigers came out roaring in the first term to kick five unanswered goals with Zac Quin getting his hands on the footy early to take first blood. It was all Tigers from there with Ryan Doolan, Tex Korewha, Eddie Mallan and finally Nick Galvin sharing it around to give the Tigers a strong lead at the first break, one which would not be headed.

The Panthers were surely very pleased to hear the siren for the end of the first term and a chance to take stock of what was happening and regroup for the second period.

It was to the home side’s credit that they did settle and return fire with five goals of their own in a more even quarter with the Tigers able to kick another four in a very attacking term for both clubs.

The Panthers Dane Stewart was able to kick two while their dangerous forward Zephyr Jenkin kicked one of his two goals in a day where he had to battle it out with the Tigers unassuming Kyle Henry. Henry is developing nicely into the Tigers go to man for important roles and he didn't disappoint today.

While the second term went to the Panthers, the Tigers big early lead was standing them in good stead as they went to the main break with a four goal advantage but something to think about.

The Tigers were once again well served in the middle by ruckman Jamie Ivers who gave his running brigade good service from which they were making the most. Veteran Jack Collings was leading from the front with his voice while showing the way with his actions.

Louis Quin was dynamic as usual crashing packs and kicking deep into attack while Zac Puncken was clean of hand and foot as usual.

The third term was another very exciting exhibition by both teams of their attacking capability with one five minute burst of play seeing each side kick three goals to have the crowd on the edge of their seats. The Tigers regained their five goal lead by the end of the term but it was a very good display by both teams.

The Tigers defence was led by James Stolz whose composure and intercept marking was first class.

The last term saw the Tigers settle into a rhythm to control the game kicking three goals and shutting the game down. Key forwards Zac Quin, Ryan Doolan and Zac McLean finished with five, four and two respectively to once again have the game within their grasp.

The Tigers travel to UQ next week for a game which always spells trouble with the Red Lions very good on their own ground.

Scores: Mayne 17.9.111 d Caloundra 10.12.72

Goals:  Zac Quin 5, Ryan Doolan 4, Zac McLean, Tex Korewha 2, Eddie Mallan, Nick Galvin, Jamie Ivers, Louis Quin 1.

Best: Jack Collings, Zac Quin, Jamie Ivers, James Stolz, Louis Quin, Zac Puncken.