Michael Warren

Journalist

Port Douglas Crocs have fallen agonisingly short after a set shot fell inches short right on fulltime in what proved an epic encounter against Cairns Saints at the Croc Pit.

Trailing 96-93 with four seconds remaining Crocs player Jesse Mawson launched a towering shot at goal from just within the 50m arc.

Looking high, long and accurate from the foot, the ball sailed directly towards goal, but dropped inches short, a Saints player then desperately punched the attempt for a behind, and a second later the full time siren
sounded in the background.

The final 10 seconds wrapped up an enthralling match in which neither team were able to really assert their authority, such was the even nature of the contest.

“At three quarter time we just said to keep running as we knew second spot was up for grabs,” ex Crocs turned Saints player Wayne Pavitt told AFL Cairns media seconds after fulltime.

“We’re pretty ecstatic after that result.”

The Saints led by six points at quarter time (27-21) while the Crocs wrestled back the advantage to be in front by 10 points at the main break (52-42). Later, Saints fought back to lead 77-67 at three quarter
time.

The Crocs kicked four goals to three in the final term but just couldn’t convert their final opportunity of the day to claim the four points.

Nic Salter was outstanding for the home side, kicking seven majors, while Ben Mcphee, Gav Jacks, Daniel Davidson, Liam Brandt and Ethan McCullough also played well for the Crocs.

Meantime in CDRL action Mossman’s dream form has continued, this time the Sharks accounted for Southern Suburbs 34-20 at Coronation Park.

Kalani Anau, Shawn Bowen and Aggie Gibuma were amongst the try scorers for the impressive ladder leaders.