By Rob McMahon
WHEN Tasmania hit the front for the first time at the ten minute mark of the final quarter in its TAC Cup match on Saturday, it looked like their opponents the Western Jets had squandered another golden opportunity to record their first win of the season.
However, the Jets rallied in a game that tightened considerably after three-quarter time and Matthew Smith’s desperate left foot snap in time-on regained the lead for Western who held on to win by two points.
Earlier in the day it looked like how far for the Jets when a six-goal-to-nil first term set the platform for what could have been a convincing victory.
Bachar Houli kicked three for the quarter and Ben Peters was prolific across half back.
The team’s pressure and intent was as good as it had been all year.
As has been the case in recent weeks, however, Western failed to maintain that intensity during the second and third quarters. Lapses in concentration allowed Tassie to kick consecutive goals and get itself back into the game.
The tense final term saw the Jets turn the pressure gauge back up and run out winners in a thrilling affair.
Will Sullivan again gave the Jets first use in the ruck and his work around the ground was a significant contribution to the victory.
Midfielders Smith, Houli and Cameron Lockwood were the main beneficiaries of Sullivan’s work, as they won their share of clearances throughout the day.
Evan Long contributed to the victory with a fine effort on the forward line on a day where no key forward really dominated.
Having recorded their first win of the season the Jets can now look to build some momentum for the season.
Their next assignment is at Trevor Barker Oval against the Sandringham Dragons this Sunday.
