By Jaydem Martin/Tigers Correspondent
The Suzuki Brisbane Tigers Hastings Deering Colts side continued their impressive season with another win after a strong second half performance as they defeated a valiant Ipswich Jets at Totally Workwear Stadium in Round 11.
In a first half that was filled with errors and poor discipline, the Tigers were made to work as they gave the Jets an early 8-nil advantage.
The Tigers eventually crawled their way back into the contest with a try to Harry Farimbella and Bailey Bartley in the 9th and 14th minute respectively.
The windy conditions made goal kicking quite a challenge for both sides with Jets’ kicker Lachlan Turnbull only managing one from four attempts while Tigers’ Jonah Glover ended the day with a 50% conversation rate.
Jets centre Kaylis Barrott found himself in the sin bin at the 35th minute, however the team were able to remain calm and composed with only 12 men.
The Jets managed to score a try during this period through forward Josiah Mauga which would also be their last time crossing the line in the game.
It was a good day for Tigers’ centre Solomona Faataape picking up a double in a strong game.
As both teams went into the sheds at half time the scores were locked up at 18 all with the away fans in attendance having some belief that their team could pull off an upset and record their first win of the season.
However, as they ran back out on the field in the second half it became the Tigers show as they flexed their premiership winning potential with a strong display.
Their first half attack was a bit clunky, however that was all forgotten as their second half performance showed why they are a dominant force in the competition.
The Tigers forward pack looked particularly ominous in the middle and laid a great platform for their backs to capitalise on, with Tigers’ prop Jacob Reedy-Bartlet inspiring his pack to deliver the damage that would eventually break the Ipswich Jets.
Reedy-Bartlet would also pick up a try on the day in the 45th minute.
Tigers hooker Justin Smith had a standout performance in his first game back from injury since round 3.
He had some class touches, a smart passing game and offered great service from dummy half and as the Tigers were able to get their rhythm flowing, he would play a key part in the Tigers 22 unanswered points in the second half to get the win.
The Jets remain on the bottom of the ladder as the Tigers keep themselves in second position and only one point behind the ladder leading Wynnum Manly Seagulls.
With the finals fast approaching, the Tigers continue to show their credentials as a genuine heavyweight in the Hastings Deering Colts competition.
Main photo: Mel Tabet
