Sea Eagles win in tough slog

A HARD-fought match resulted in a 26-point win to Inverloch-Kongwak in its first game of the season against Korumburra-Bena.

The Sea Eagles went into their season opener scrappier than they would’ve liked, but much of it was to the credit of the Giants, who demonstrated great pressure and intensity. 

It was a warm day and hard ground made it tough for Korumburra-Bena, but the boys were ready to fight for the win after coming off a disappointing loss last week against Kilcunda-Bass, looking to redeem themselves against a strong Inverloch-Kongwak group.

Nick Beasley for Korumburra-Bena kicked the first goal of the game with the second goal going to Bryce Riddell. 

Inverloch-Kongwak had only scored two points 10 minutes in. 

Jye Celebrine stopped Inverloch-Kongwak’s first potential goal with a great tackle, resulting in a free kick to Korumburra-Bena.

Tackling pressure was high all quarter, and the first term was won by Korumburra-Bena with hard tackling pressure, great leads to the ball and smooth ball movement. 

The great tackling pressure continued into the second quarter. 

Jayden Deas kicked his first for the game and the second for the quarter, and Joel Cuman goaled after a free kick.  

Deas then kicked his second goal of the game and Evan Allaway produced great rucking taps in favour of his team all game. 

Inverloch-Kongwak kicked a goal in the last seconds of the second quarter to be in front for the first time all game.

By the third quarter, injuries started to occur, leaving one less on the bench. 

Spirits were still high and tackling pressure high from the Giants. 

Inverloch-Kongwak started to win more of the ball in the third quarter, and the results were shown on the scoreboard.

Ethan Park dominated for Inverloch-Kongwak through the midfield, and Will Turner was influential at half forward and on the wing.

Dylan Clark was another high-performing player for the Sea Eagles, going between the backline and the ruck.

Inverloch-Kongwak picked up its game to lead by nineten points at the last change. 

Giants’ Hugh Gordon goaled from the 50 in the fourth quarter to take it back to 11 points, lifting the spirits of his team. 

Inverloch-Kongwak had more of the ball in the last half, and despite their inaccuracy secured the win. 

The Giants fought hard and continued the strong pressure all game. 

The Sea Eagles were happy to have made the comeback to claim the four points and start their 2025 campaign on a positive note. 

Inverloch-Kongwak is now anticipating the Easter Saturday match against Kilcunda-Bass.

This match is sure to draw in a big crowd, and Inverloch-Kongwak is keen to demonstrate some improvement across the ground.

Kilcunda-Bass made an appearance in the finals in 2024, and Inverloch-Kongwak coach Leigh Cole was impressed with the side’s round-one performance, so is expecting an exciting matchup. 

Giants coach Josh Hopkins was pleased with how his team conducted themselves and produced a four-quarter effort against a benchmark team. 

With a week off over Easter, the boys will be looking to continue on with their great form for when they play Dalyston at home on April 26 for an Anzac Day clash. 

This day will shape up to be a great day for the club and community, with Heath Shaw and Ricky Nixon as special guests and Shaw playing alongside the seniors. 

The Giants hope to see a lot of the community there to support their growing club.