Tigers on the prowl for flag glory

TWEED Coast Tigers know they are set for an epic grand final this Saturday after witnessing Lismore Swans deliver a power-packed performance against Ballina Bombers in the elimination final at Round Mountain.

The Swans knocked over the Bombers convincingly, 24.23-167 to 8.6-54, when it mattered most and secured their spot in the Summerland League grand final.

There was also the added bonus of avenging their round-17 loss.

After the Bombers played the Tigers in the semi-final on August 28 they were drained and left with niggling injuries, which impeded them when they played the Swans.

The most damaging moments in the game for the Bombers came in the first quarter, when Lismore had first use of the wind and kicked 10 goals.

Tigers president Colin Richards said it had been a big game for Lismore and the players had showed their best form of the year.

“They won quite comfortably. It was 10 goals to two in the first quarter and they dominated the game,” Richards said.

“They (Lismore) didn't show too many weaknesses with the way they played against Ballina. It is hard to beat a team that has won the week before, so it won't be an easy game next weekend.

“After Saturday's game a few guys from Lismore came over to us and said we should be worried because they would take it right up to us in the grand final.”

Following the match was the Summerland League presentation night at Pottsville Beach Sports Club and the superb efforts of Tigers star Arnold Knight were rewarded.

Knight received the biggest accolade of the evening, the best and fairest award, by an incredible 29 votes. It is his first award after his first Summerland season.

Richards said Knight was an all-round good sportsman who had a long list of sporting achievements spanning back to his teens.

“Arnold was a state representative in surf lifesaving as a junior and he was in the national titles,” Richards said.

“He represented his school at rugby league. He is very talented and we are lucky to have him. This is his first year in the Summerland competition as he had played for Gold Coast before.”

The Tigers are hot favourites for the grand final as they have led all season. However, they are set to face their biggest test of character.

“Lismore have really good numbers and are feeling very confident. Both teams are. It should be a cracker,” Richards said.

The grand final will be played at Fripp Oval, Lismore, on Saturday.

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