Tigers end Lions’ winning streak

Image: Colac co-coaches Darcy Lang and Rowen McSparron in 2022 (Marcel Berens/Sports Media Image)

Colac has ended Leopold’s seven-game winning streak with a dominant 51-point win at Memorial Park in Round 13 of the GFNL.

The Tigers were hot from the start, booting three goals within the first five minutes of the game, keeping the Lions at arms length all day to finish winner 17.9 (111) to 6.12 (60).

Colac co-coach Rowan McSparron said he was impressed with his side’s game, but admitted the game seemed closer than the scores suggested.

“For big periods they had the ball in their half and we probably took our chances a bit more,” McSparron said.

“I don’t think either team played harder, it was a pretty solid hit-out (and) just going forward we probably capitalised a little bit more than they did,” he said.

“If you look at the inside 50 numbers they actually beat us quite easily, so it probably wasn’t a true indication on the scoreboard.”

McSparron felt the Tigers had a very even spread of good players on the day, with Bailey Scott, Jonathan Simpkin, Ryan Monaghan and Darcy Lang all kicking two goals apiece, while Luke Hillman booted a game-high four.

“Darcy Lang obviously played really well again, he’s a hell of a player,” McSparron said.

“(Hillman) was just dangerous up forward, coming in nice and quick,” he said.

“He looked lively and was able to capitalise on some of those entries coming in.

“Zach Zdybel in the ruck was very good.

“I think we won the hitouts for the day, which was pleasing, it obviously helps when you don’t have Trent West playing against you.”

It’s a big win for the Tigers which keeps them in touch with ladder leader St Mary’s, who they face in two weeks in a crucial clash.

McSparron said the teams main focus for now will be on Grovedale, who Colac plays at home in Round 14.

Image: Colac co-coaches Darcy Lang and Rowen McSparron earlier in the season. (Marcel Berens/Sports Media Image)

“They’ve got some good young talent, so we have to take care of them first,” he said.