Kats pluck Falcons in a nailbiter derby

The Karratha Kats had a close call at Bulgarra Oval last Friday night, with the premiership hopefuls claiming a last-minute, four-point victory over the Falcons in the final derby of the season.

The Kats appeared lacklustre from the centre bounce, allowing the Falcons the chance to swoop to an early three-point lead at the first change.

The Falcons continued to soar in the second term, their mid-fielders putting on an impressive display of sleek skills to help the side to five goals for the quarter and a 13 point lead at the main break.

The Kats clawed back in the third quarter, with the defence standing tall and stopping the Falcons’ run in to goal.

The home-side managed 2.2 for the term, while the visitors kicked 4.3, bringing it to a draw at the final change.

A nail-biting final term ensued, with the Falcons kicking the first goal of the quarter to take the lead.

The Kats’ were wasteful in front of goal, kicking multiple behinds and missing many opportunities to get in front.

Eventually there were able to score a quick couple, before the Falcons kicked another to take back the lead. But a goal within the last two minutes to the Kats sealed the victory for them.

The final score was Falcons 11.6 (72) to Kats 10.16 (76).

Kats coach John Wellington said their accuracy on goal was a major issue for the game.

“To have eight or more scoring shots and only win by four points isn’t ideal, but we got the four points in the end,” he said. “The boys entered the game a bit flat because we can’t lose our second spot on the ladder, so I had to give them a rev at half-time.”

It was a different story in the reserves, with the top placed Kats cruising to an easy 40-point win.

The final score was Falcons 5.5 (35) to Kats 11.9 (75).