The East Coast Eagles’ winning streak has ended at seven. After an even contest throughout the whole day it was St George who kicked the last two goals of the day to outlast the Eagles by four points. The final scoreboard read the Crows 16.10 (106) to the Eagles 16.6 (102).
There was never more than six points the difference at any change of quarter, but in the end it was St George who was in the lead at the last siren and it was the new cult hero at the Crows, Maurice Goolagong, who did the damage with the last two goals of the day, leaving him with a total of five for the day.
The Eagles had a chance to snatch victory in the final minute but Luke Stanford could not quite slot it through.
The Eagles will now look forward to the week off to get over a few niggles and look to focus on the last four games leading into the finals. With only one game separating first to fourth every game becomes important in trying to get the all important double chance.
Ben Rogers led the way for the Eagles with five majors. Matt Arbon and Mark Maher were solid throughout the whole game and Jason Coulloupas and Luke Stanford led the way in the middle.
The reserves continued on their winning way with an emphatic 78-point victory. It took the side a little while to adjust to the unusual tactics of two extra players in the Eagles’ forward line by the opposition, but once they adjusted they never looked back.
The Eagles ran out winners by 14.13 (97) to 3.1 (19).
Andrew Polkinghorne led the way with four goals and a best on ground performance. Scott Lear, James Mann and Liam Madden were all valuable contributors.
The under-18s continued on its good form and consolidated its second position on the ladder. They were never troubled after a five-goal to one first quarter and then ran out easy winners by 96 points, 18.11 (119) to 3.5 (23).
Josh Shephard once again led the way and he was ably supported by Matt Power and Richard Goisisi.
The Challenge Cup team was no match for Moorebank Sports and went down 16.9 (105) to 3.6 (36).
All teams have next weekend off and look forward to taking on Balmain at Drummoyne on Sunday, August 3. The Challenge Cup take on Penrith on Saturday, August 2 at Greygums Oval.
For full details of the premiership ladder for all East Coast Eagles teams, click here.
