Looma Eagles soar to victory

The Looma Eagles made a massive statement of intent in the West Kimberley Football League last Saturday, winning the Boab Cup against the Derby Tigers on opposition soil.

Two of the main contenders for 2013 glory, the sides played out arguably the game of the season at Derby Oval, with the Eagles clinching victory at 12.7 (79) to 9.5 (59).

In a clash that could have ended either way, Looma beat the Tigers for the second time this term.

The game started at an unbelievable pace, with both sides looking to claim the midfield ascendency, and there were few opportunities for points as the individual battles across the oval were wholeheartedly contested.

It took 10 minutes before the shackles were finally broken, and, after a breathless first stanza, Looma successfully took a 2.3 (15) to 1.2 (8) lead into the break.

The Eagles were boosted by the return of former Western Bulldogs ruckman Zephaniah Skinner, and with talisman Lyle Buck to the fore took the game to their star-studded opponents in the second quarter.

With a blend of skill and speed, Looma dominated the second period, and were up 8.4 (52) to 3.4 (22) at the half-time interval.

Some teams would have buckled under the incredible pressure Looma were putting them under, but Derby showed in the third quarter that they will take some beating come finals time.

The Tigers rallied to reel in Looma’s advantage, with an extraordinary team effort required to get the better of a supremely talented Eagles midfield.

The game was finely poised with 20 minutes to play, with Looma in the lead by one goal, 9.4 (58) to 8.4 (52).

Derby’s recovery was complete within 60 seconds of the fourth quarter, with a Tigers major pulling the hosts back into contention.

Despite the Tigers’ momentum, Looma collected themselves and started playing the exciting brand of football that has captivated spectators all season long.

A flurry of Looma goals in the final exchanges decided the game in their favour, and concluded an outstanding 80 minutes of West Kimberley football.

Despite Derby restricting Looma’s main attacking threat Deromitt Wilson to just one goal, others stood up to share the points burden. Lewis Broome, Jefferson Pindan, Jason Crusoe and Aaron Pindan all kicked two majors.

The Tigers will be buoyed by their third-quarter performance, and remain a massive challenger for 2013 glory. Gerrick Weedon was the standout for the hosts, while Brad Gardiner, Kadin Bauer and Paul Taylor all played starring roles in the epic encounter.

Former West Coast Eagles AFL star Adam Hunter ended up with four goals, but will rue missed opportunities to take additional marks in opposition territory.

West Kimberley Football League chief executive Graeme Gordon said the game was more than fitting of a grand final.

Looma’s win sees them equal on points with table-toppers Cable Beach, with both sides sitting on 32 points after eight wins from 10 games. Derby are a win behind in third place.

All eight WKFL sides are back in action this Saturday, with Looma’s clash with fourth-placed Broome Saints the tie of the round.