Sea Eagles soar over Giants

KORUMBURRA BENA licked their wounds and travelled down from the hills to the Inverloch Recreation Reserve to take on the biggest test in footy this season, against the undefeated Inverloch Kongwak. 

The Sea Eagles would’ve expected a strong fight from their younger opponents, who took it right to them in the corresponding match up at Inverloch last season, in which the upset was in play. 

Korumburra Bena had certainly come to play, putting any thought of an easy day at the office out of the Sea Eagles minds, booting two first quarter goals thanks to some great pressure and defence.

Both teams’ backlines were put under immense pressure at times but as the siren blew to end the opening term, the Giants turnovers and mistakes were the difference, as they went into the first break five points down. 

Paul Fermanis’ side were making a game of it though, bringing their trademark fight, showing once again they are a team with a big heart. 

In the second quarter, it was IK who were putting the majority of the pressure on, but the Giant defence was again up to the challenge, despite being so under the pump, generating scoring opportunities which were unfortunately not converted. 

As the term wore on, the Sea Eagles got more and more into their groove, forcing Korumburra Bena turnovers and making them pay with goals, which started to flow nicely towards the end of the quarter. 

At halftime, the hosts had opened up a 54-point lead, thanks to a seven goal second term, in which they kept their opponents scoreless. 

The third term was now different, as the ladder leaders began to flex their muscle, moving the ball exceptionally well, using it to their advantage as they have done all season long.

The Giants were brave, but started to struggle with size and were finding it hard to find space, often getting tackled quickly and easily, this led to some indecision with ball in hand and more turnovers. 

With one quarter to go, the Giants found themselves 83-points behind but never gave in.

Inverloch Kongwak eventually ran out 122-point winners, thanks to another six unanswered goals in the final term, the win is their seventh straight in 2023 and they remain a game clear on top of the table. 

The Sea Eagles will now travel to face Koo Wee Rup this Saturday, while the Giants will go on the road to battle it out with Kilcunda Bass in the hopes of finding their second win of the season.