The Southern Mallee Giants have made it 3 wins in a row to climb to third on the ladder. A great display of football in the second quarter resulting in 10 goals to Woomelang Lascelles' 2 was the difference in an otherwise closely contested match.

In fact, the Cats won every other quarter of the match. Both teams missed simple opportunities in the first quarter missing out on the chance to gain the early advantage. A fast pace game had been set and free flowing football ensued.

Pierce Liddle kicked the first goal of the second quarter for the Cats, but it was all Giants from then on. They were winning it form the centre with Clint Burdett and Tyler Lehmann picking off their opposition ruck taps and driving the ball forward. While the Cats were putting time and effort into stopping Kain Robins' influence, the Giants were able to find other avenues to goal. From their 10 goals, they had 9 different goals kickers. Undisciplined acts by the Cats gave Leigh Stewart a 100m penalty and a resulting goal late in the term for the home side.

The Cats being the quality side that they are, were never going to lie down. With their backs against the wall, Trent Donnan and Jayden Lonergan stood up and provided an aggressive attack on the football and started to win many 50-50 contests. This, along with the foot skills of Brodie Adcock and Devin McFarlane off half back kept them in the game.

But it wasn't enough to get them over the line. Sam Weddell and Fabian Deborlo had their work cut out in the back line as the Cats were coming home strongly in the last quarter. But the two kept their composure and were able to rebound the ball time after time, the Giants hanging on by 15 points.

Ouyen United hosted Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers in an important game for the home team. A win could have potentially taken them 4 points clear into second spot, however it wasn't to be.

The Tigers started strongly, Cliff Ryan dominant as he booted 3 of his 5 goals in the first term. Their midfield through Tom Summerhayes and Matt Elliot were also getting on top early.

United kept themselves in the game outscoring the Tigers to trail by just 15 points at the main break. Jackson Morrish kicked 2 goals up forward while Dean Staunton and Peter Caldow were finding space and providing good delivery going forward. Andrew Jardine was getting on top down back and was being ably supported by Aron Morrish.

At the start of the third quarter a Henry Armour goal got them within 10 points, but it was all Tigers from then on. The ladder leaders put their foot down kicking 9 goals to none from that point on. John Foskett was damaging and Scott Weekley was also impressive.

The Tigers seem to be able to flick a switch to take control of a game when needed. While they will be happy with a comfortable win in the end, they will be looking for consistent four-quarter efforts in the future.

By Dale Shannon