THE Stallions first grade side had a tough day in Bombala on Sunday, going down to the Eden Tigers 32-14 in miserable conditions.
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The game started well for the Stallions, with Matt Salvestro crossing out wide within the opening minutes, but strong winds meant the conversion was waved away.
Kicks in play were strong with the wind at their backs, but the inclement weather made attacking opportunities few and far between.
A line break from Todd Williams was promising in providing the Stallions some field position, but they were unable to cross with Eden’s defence holding strong.
Murray Jackson charged down a kick which similarly placed the Stallions well, but Eden were not phased by the pressure; holding strong at their own end of the field, before crossing for a try of their own at the other end of the field and taking the lead, 6-4.
Minutes later, Eden scored again, before a scuffle in front of the posts gave Eden a penalty right in front and took the half time score to 12-4 in Eden’s favour.
A well placed kick off from Paul Perkins in the second half gave Cooma the ball back and started the half well, but it wasn’t enough, with Eden opening the scoring again.
The addition of Steven Russell off the bench reignited the Stallions enthusiasm, and on the back of an error from Eden, Adam Walters was able to crash over and hit back for the Stallions, taking the score to 24-8.
Chris Khoury broke the line not long afterwards and was caught inches from the try line, but this break gave Cooma the ascendency and as a result, Paul Perkins caught Eden’s defence on the back foot and slid through the line.
For 10 minutes, the contest was tight with the Tigers defending their 10 point lead and the Stallions tirelessly striving for opportunities, with Brett Hodak working hard in the middle and Mitch Lynch safe at the back but in the end it wasn’t enough.
With two minutes remaining on the clock, Eden kicked a penalty goal and within the last minute, Eden crossed to cement their win and take the final score to 32-14.
The Stallions showed they are continuing to build this season and while they showed moments of flair, are working to make their efforts consistent.
Three points and players’ player this week was awarded to Adam Walters, 2 points went to Brett Hodak and 1 point to Todd Williams.
Next week, the Stallions take on Moruya in Moruya.
