The Kyneton Tigers are yet to defeat a top three side in 2017, but they’re getting closer.
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Despite being the better side for much of the day, The Tigers had to settle for a draw against Golden Square at Wade Street on Saturday.
The Tigers had the Dogs on the ropes in the final quarter, but the home side kicked the final three goals of the game to pinch a draw – 10.11 (71) to 9.17 (71).
The Tigers have had five games decided by seven points or less this year and they’re yet to win one.
Rather than dwell on his side failing to land the knockout blow, Kyneton coach Luke Beattie preferred to focus on the positives of his side’s performance.
“Our response from a really disappointing, lacklustre second half the week before, to producing good football from the outset against a quality opponent was really pleasing,’’ Beattie said.
“An additional two points from the game doesn’t take anything away from that element.”
Golden Square coach Bernie Haberman said his side had stolen two points.
“Kyneton were the better team, there’s no doubt about that,’’ Haberman admitted.
“I’m really not sure how we got away with two points.
“They smashed us around the stoppage and contested footy. It was our key focus going into the game, and through the game, but Kyneton was too good in that area.
“To be three goals down with eight minutes to go… and come back and get the draw showed some resilience.
“We got what we deserved out of the game. We certainly didn’t deserve the four points.”
The hard work and ball-winning ability of midfielders Josh Govan, Rhys Magin and Billy Mahoney stood out for the Tigers.
Max O’Sullivan showed flashes of brilliance through the middle and across half-forward, while Ben Weightman snared four goals to take his season tally to 89.
“I thought our defence, as a team, was outstanding,’’ Beattie said.
“When you can keep good sides to scores like that you’re going to give yourself every chance of winning.”
The Bulldogs had few four-quarter performers. Ruckman Matt Compston toiled hard, Braydon Welsh impressed and Michael Dalrymple was solid down back.
“Compared to last week’s game we were poles apart with our effort,’’ Haberman said. “We felt as though we didn’t do much right, but we still found a way to get something out of the game, so that was pleasing.
“We can’t afford to play like that in the big stuff (finals). If we do, we’ll get pushed aside pretty quickly.”
