Lions gallant, but go down to Claremont

Subiaco fell just seven-points short of victory against Claremont in a heavily contested game of football.

Perth’s stormy weather meant it was a difficult game of football, with both sides making errors throughout the game.

The Tigers managed to keep the Lions goalless in the second term, which was enough to separate the two sides in the end in an otherwise even contest.

Young defender Galen Savigni looked strong in defence, with 18 kicks and four marks, while Lewis Putt put in effort around the ground with 19 touches and 22 hit outs.

Heavy rain prior to the start of the game meant it was truly wet weather football.

There were plenty of stoppages, and both teams were finding it difficult to have clean possession.

It took until the 19th minute of the game before the first goal was scored, with Harry Marsh spinning out of traffic and kicking truly to get the Lions the lead.

The Lions were able to hold off Claremont for the majority of the term, but a costly error on the last line of defence led to a goal to level the scores at quarter time.

It was the same competitive feel from both sides in the second term, but the Tigers were the ones to capitalise on the scoreboard.

Despite both sides’ defences holding up, Claremont kicked two goals that defied the weather conditions.

Meanwhile, the Lions at the other end only managed the one point, meaning it was a two-goal deficit heading into half time.

The contested efforts continued in the second half, as both teams tried to gain territory.

The Tigers were the first to strike, with Jack Buller kicking his second goal to increase his side’s lead.

Subiaco was able to counter, with Brandon Matera putting through a set shot to keep the team within striking distance.

With 14 points separating the two sides at three quarter time, the Lions needed to swing the momentum their way in order to overcome the deficit.

When Timm House kicked his first for Claremont, it appeared far-fetched for a Subiaco comeback.

However, Subiaco never gave in, taking the game on to surge forward late in the contest.

It allowed spearhead Ben Sokol to get on the end of back-to-back goals to give the Lions hope.

However, it was too late, with Claremont walking away seven point winners.

SUBIACO        1.1    1.2    2.3    4.4    (28)
CLAREMONT        1.1    3.2    4.5    5.5    (35)

Goals: Sokol 2; Marsh, Matera.
Best: Savigni, Putt, Giro, Henderson.