Tongala second best Blues against Numurkah

The first half would have been particularly disappointing for coach Stephen Hammond, as only one of his charges’ nine scoring shots sailed true in the first hour.

Neither side contributed much offensively in the early part of the first quarter, but Numurkah was able to grab one quick goal and two more late to lead 21-4 at the break.

Tongala got back in the contest in the second with its first major drawing it within eight points, but Numurkah found two of its own before half-time.

The host was on top 5.7 (37) to 1.8 (14) at the main break.

While Tongala kicked a little better in the third period, Numurkah also stepped up its game, finding four goals to the visitor’s two in the quarter.

Tonny again struggled for accuracy in the fourth, while Numurkah had its eye in and sealed the game with a 4.1 term.

The final score had Numurkah 13.13 (91) get the best of Tongala 6.15 (51).

Although the host led in total scoring shots 26-21, a more accurate scoring output from the visitor would have put the pressure on Numurkah in the dying minutes.

The goals Tonny did find were confined to three players, James Coulson kicking three, Matt Caia two and Nate Dear one.

Kade O’Dwyer was the leader for Numurkah with three.

In what could have been a critical mid-table clash for Tongala, it was Numurkah that instead established a break over Tonny, leaving it two games clear of sixth spot and the finals places.

Quickly running out of time to make up that ground, Tongala won’t enjoy looking ahead to see champion in waiting Congupna on the fixture.

The Blues will host The Road this Saturday.