Tigers just hold on for thrilling victory

With only nine regulars available, the Tigers called on the assistance of Natasha Hutchings and Haylee Wakefield to help make up the numbers.

The Tigers led 3-1 at the break courtesy of a Mitch Hutchings first half hat-trick before the visitors fought back in the second period to nearly steal a share of the points.

Tichborne’s defence held strong in the final minutes to secure the side’s third win in as many matches.

Both sides play an open style with good ball movement, each creating a number of opportunities in the opening minutes.

Tigers opened the scoring when Hutchings was put through and the goal-scoring machine calmly wrong-footed the All Stars keeper to give the home side a 1-0 lead.

Alec Bateson was conspicuous in his play, helping the defence and linking up the attack.

The Tigers had their second goal when he sent Hayden Fletcher free down the right.

Fletcher found Hutchings with a pinpoint cross and the attacker headed the ball back across goal to give the keeper no chance for 2-0.

Forbes got a goal back through good team play, but Tichborne regained momentum just before halftime when Hutchings scored his third for 3-1 at oranges.

Hutchings scored his and the Tigers fourth goal after good lead up work from Bateson and Andrew Bourke as the home side seemed to be cruising at 4-1.

Tigers missed a number of great opportunities to put the game to bed and nearly paid dearly for it.

The tide of the match turned and two Forbes goals had Tichborne feeling the heat for the final minutes.

They held on to win 4-3 courtesy of some fine Sean Noble saves.

Tichborne head to Forbes this Sunday to face defending premiers Forbes Gunns.