KANIVA-LEEOR United’s nine-game winning streak was brought to an end in their top-of-the-table clash against premiership favourite Padthaway at Kaniva on Saturday.
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The Lions increased their advantage over the Cougars at every change to run out 21.14 (140) to 10.10 (70) victors. It was the Lions’ 11th consecutive victory and their second against the Cougars this season.
Cougars coach Neil Reeve said the Lions were definitely the team to beat.
“They’re a good team – they’re on top of the ladder for a reason and they’ve beaten everyone,” he said.
“They play a brand of footy that can win you a premiership and it’s now up to the other teams to counter that.
“They’ve got a lot of depth and they’re a good team across the board.”
Reeve – who missed the match with a shoulder injury – said it was good learning experience heading towards the business end of the season.
“It was good for me not playing and watching from the sidelines,” he said.
“I took so much out of it.
“If we do meet them in the finals it would be a tough game, but I’m confident we can beat them at their own game.”
Reeve said defender James Turner was his side’s best, while captain Jonno Hicks held former Adelaide Crows forward Ian Perrie to just one goal.
Leigh Ryan kicked three for the Cougars, while former Adelaide, North Melbourne and Western Bulldogs forward Scott Welsh kicked six goals for the Lions.
At the other end of the ladder, Border Districts are in danger of claiming the wooden spoon after losing by 59 points to bottom side Kybybolite.
The result leaves both equal on points – with the Eagles holding a marginal percentage buffer – with four rounds to play.
Scott Carberry kicked six goals for the Tigers, while Corey Burr was named the Eagles’ best performer.
In other results, Penola accounted for Lucindale by 13 goals, Keith thrashed Kingston by 94 points and Mundulla won by 56 points at Bordertown.