Beach pip Tigers in thriller

Cable Beach created their own piece of history last weekend, winning successive premierships with a 2012 WKFL grand-final victory over the gallant Derby Tigers.

Scoring 8.10 (58) to Derby’s 7.10 (52), Cable Beach triumphed in one of the most thrilling games of football seen in the WKFL in the past five years.

Having kicked a goal in the first 40 seconds, Beach seemed to be all over Derby early in the first quarter.

Ben DeMeo was on top, giving the fleet-footed Jordan King, Brad Angus and JoJo Dann first use of the ball. Brett Claudius was brilliant as well.

Derby settled with Scott McKenzie pumping the ball forward, Wade Wungundin lively and tall forwards Michael Embley and Michael Harris creating opportunities. Derby led at quarter time, 3.0 (18) to 2.2 (14).

The Tigers carried their momentum into the second quarter, leading at half-time 5.5 (35) to 3.5 (23), mainly due to the efforts of key forwards Trent Audis and Embley, supported by McKenzie and Wungudin. Cable Beach kicked one goal in the quarter, defending grimly against the odds.

The third quarter was a struggle, with Beach kicking 3.3 to Derby Tigers’ 2.4, both sides striving for an advantage.

Evo Russell and Scott Clarke looked dangerous as the Beach midfield strived to regain the ascendancy.

Elliot Fitts, Dann, King, Claudius and the hard-working Angus all gained possessions to keep Cable Beach in the game.

McKenzie continued his good form, gathering many possessions along with Dahmen Higgs, Paul Taylor and David Altham.

The game was up for grabs at three-quarter time, Derby leading 7.9 (51) to 6.8 (44).

The last quarter was a hard-fought contest, both teams pushing to gain the lead.

With 2min. 40sec. to go, it was tied up at 7.10 (52) apiece.

The remaining moments were unbelievably tense, as the Beach upped the momentum with a goal to Russell with seconds to play.

The win means Beach have now won three of the past four premierships. Derby Tigers’ Scott McKenzie was named best on ground.

Cable Beach captain Angus thanked his team, supporters, sponsors and the league for the season.