Newlyn’s Brayden Slater and Springbank’s Jarrod Heald fend each other off during Saturday’s match.
SPRINGBANK prevailed by three points in what was effectively an eight-point game in the context of its season.
In a tight contest, where the lead never exceeded 11 points for either side, it was a three-goal final term that proved decisive for the Tigers.
Not for the first time this season Ryan Knowles moved to the goalsquare in the last quarter in what proved to be a match-winning switch.
Knowles kicked one and set up a handful of others as the Tigers ground out a significant win in a clash between two sides equal on points heading into the game.
In a see-sawing contest, the lead changed on 10 occasions, including five in the last quarter, before youngster Derek Stephens sealed the win with two minutes remaining.
Newlyn joint-coach Adam Sewell was dominant in the first half as the Cats were allowed to play a number of men behind the ball and looked in complete control of the match.
Springbank put an emphasis on accountability and pressure in the second half and it paid dividends; with added composure in the final term the Tigers could have won by a more comfortable margin.
“In terms of 22 contributors we couldn’t have asked for much more than that,” coach Sam Giblett said post-match.
“Our run and spread, particularly in the second half, was excellent and is something we pride ourselves on.”
For the victors, James Millikan gathered possessions at will across the ground, while Stephen Kane and Giblett were exceptional.
Joel Maher kicked two and did a great job on Sewell after being given the role in the second half.
Newlyn will be wondering how it let the game slip, however, the finger could not be pointed at Chris Eastwell, Tristan May and Sewell, who were among the Cats’ best.
James Maher booted three goals and gave Newlyn a much-needed spark up forward as Michael Dodds, coming off a six-goal game last week, was held to just a solitary goal by Liam Jackson.
Leigh Allen played a key role down back, keeping Springbank spearhead Tom Eltringham to just two goals.
Springbank 9.3 (57)
Newlyn 7.12 (54)
