Doc’s Debrief | Round 11

Despite the trying conditions, the Bays took home the points Saturday afternoon after a nail-biting finish at the Ponderosa.

Doc is optimistic, confident that the Bays rose to a unique challenge, with our mids and forwards finding a way against a relentless Central Districts outfit.

“Central Districts played really well and it’s a unique challenge, their ground, it’s a huge ground and it was heavy conditions. So, to be behind early in the game and then to find out way through that, I thought it was really pleasing and an important win in our season,” Doc said during Monday morning’s match wrap.

The Bulldogs brought the pressure to the Tigers’ trip out to Elizabeth, winning the tackle count 48-56, contested marks 6-13, and clearances 24-28.

“We didn’t defend as well as we would have liked, particularly in the first quarter and a half, so we gave them a couple of easy goals.”

It was Mr. Reliable, Corey Lyons, who stood up under the trying conditions, his 36-disposals pushing him into the SANFL’s Leading Players in season 2026. Those disposals paired with his 12 marks and four tackles solidifies his reliability in games that mean the most.

Lachie Hosie continues to impact the scoreboard, earning three goals from dominant contest around the ground.

“I thought Lachie’s game was really strong as well, obviously (he) hit the scoreboard, but he was impactful up around the contest, winning some clearances,” Doc said.

The Bays continue to find a way to win in tough conditions in season 2026, proven throughout the season’s earlier games and last quarter efforts across the board. In our Round 11 clash against the Dogs, the Tigers continued to find a way, which impresses Doc as the season plays out.

“Our backs had a tougher day, but after halfway of the second quarter they really knuckled down and got on task. So, I was pretty happy overall. It wasn’t perfect in any means, but we found a way to get a win.”

The Tigers are set for a competitive run in the coming weeks, hosting the Double Blues at home this Saturday, followed by Norwood at the Parade, then Adelaide.

“The competition is crazy even. We played Centrals, who are sitting bottom of the ladder, but I think they’ll win a lot of games on the way home,” said Doc.

“We have a really big challenge this week against Sturt who are up and running.”

The Tigers return home this weekend for another important game in a season that is shaping to be tight until the very end.