Meanwhile, Border Districts couldn’t maintain the intensity against Keith and was handed a 25-point loss. 

KANIVA-LEEOR United came close to securing a win, running down the wing as the siren sounded and the game against Kybybolite ending in a draw. 

The Cougars were inaccurate on the day, with the scoreboard reading Kaniva-Leeor United 12.18 (90) Kybybolite 13.12 (90).

Coach Nick Murphy said the loss hurt. 

“In the last quarter with 15 minutes to go we were down by 15 to 20 points. The resilience we showed was great,” he said. 

“We’ve been in that position against top teams a couple times this year and for them to show they can get back into the game.

“It made me immensely proud.” 

The lead shifted back and forth, with the Cougars leading at quarter time before the Tigers led at halftime by two points. 

After the third quarter, the Tigers built on their lead and stretched it out to four points. 

“I am proud of the boys and the way they gutted the game out,” Murphy said. 

In the first quarter, the Cougars managed 10 scoring opportunities with eight of them registering as behinds.

“We didn’t let it affect our game,” Murphy said. 

“The second quarter was even. We kicked the first two goals in the third quarter.” 

Cohen Thiele was named best on ground, kicking three goals.

Murphy said his side needed that score injection.

“He showed class in the last two minutes. He put us up by a point,” Murphy said. 

“We then put two players loose in defence. They slowly moved the ball toward their 50 with stoppages. 

“They got a free kick in the last minute and kicked a point.” 

Murphy has noticed considerable improvement within his side, in the players’ confidence, their ability, skill improvement and their knowledge of the game plan.  

BORDER Districts was dealt a loss when Keith travelled to face the cellar dwellers, finishing 11.17 (83) to 9.4 (58). 

The side came closest in the second quarter, cutting the deficit to 10 points. 

Cameron Sandercock was best on ground.