Determined Emus clip Eagles’ wings

A nailbiting finish has resulted in the Bidyadanga Emus getting a win over reigning premiers Looma Eagles at Haynes Oval on Saturday.

The two remote-community teams squared off in their second round clash, where the Emus looked to gain a second successive win while Looma wanted to redeem themselves from their round one loss to the Cable Beach Greenbacks.

Windy conditions seemingly had a strong effect on kicking accuracy although Bidyadanga’s Courtney Thomas would break through to secure a quick goal to open the match.

What followed was a tug of war between both teams to obtain the early lead in the speedy contest.

Although it would be Bidyadanga that would take the early lead at quarter-time, Looma made sure they were not far behind, only trailing by a goal.

In the second quarter Looma were determined to make an early comeback with a quick goal from Tyrese Skeen.

The contest soon became a stalemate as both teams fought hard with each other to gain possession. A late goal from Linton Butt ensured the Emus held the lead at the main break.

In the third term the Eagles put the pressure on the Emus with a goal from Zephaniah Skinner, although the Emus would retaliate with two goals from Courtney Thomas and Andre Kitty to hold on to an 11-point lead at three-quarter- time.

In the final quarter Looma strived hard to make a comeback and achieve their first win of the season.

It seemed their new-found determination was working in their favour as Anfernee Bilgin and Deromitt Wilson brought the Eagles in close contention.

As the Emus tried to hold on to their lead, goals from Skinner and Keanu Skeen had Looma’s hopes looking up as they hit the front,

However, a late goal from Bidyadanga’s Linton Butt would seal the two-point victory for the Emus, crushing the Eagles in the process.

Bidyadanga will be looking to make it three wins in a row when they take on Broome Bulls on home turf on Saturday May 18, while Looma will look to get an upset win over Derby Tigers in Looma on Saturday.