Crocs hold on in thriller to pip Lions

CROCS WIN

Michael Warren

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Chris Colombo kicked five goals as the Crocs narrowly held on to beat the Lions 87-83 in the final round of the home and away AFL Cairns season. Picture: Brett Pascoe Photography

In a brilliant pre curser to Saturday's do or die clash the Crocs reminded all concerned they’re not in the finals just to make up the numbers after downing minor premiers the Lions 87-83 in an electrifying final round AFL Cairns clash at Holloways Beach.

In stunning scenes the Lions kicked five straight goals in the final term to storm back into winning calculations.

With the clock ticking down it was left to Lions forward Jackson Calder, who, on the back of fast transition from his teammates had a shot on the bell to win the game for the defending premiers.

Calder’s attempt from 48 metres out with little angle looked long and good from the boot and appeared to be sailing through for the match winner.

However, a Port player managed to get a slight touch on the long bomb just inches before the goal line which sealed an emphatic and gritty win for the visitors.

Forward goal sneak Chris Colombo was enormous for the Crocs kicking five crucial majors in place of key forward Nic Salter who missed through injury. 

The win sets up a semi-final on Saturday against the Bulldogs, a team the Crocs beat in a gritty affair in Port Douglas just two weeks ago.

CDRL

Meantime in CDRL action the Mossman Port Douglas Sharks have romped to the minor premiership after demolishing Mareeba.

The Sharks led 20-0 early and powered on to eventually win 58-6.

Football

In FNQ football action Douglas Dragons first division went down to Atherton 3-1.

The Dragons held a 1-0 halftime advantage but couldn't maintain their buffer as Atherton scored three second half goals to take the win.

Despite the loss the Dragons finished first on the ladder, this week they'll again play Atherton at home to secure a berth in the grand final.

Gonzalo Becerra took man of the match honours, while Christian Snel scored the Dragons lone goal.

In second division the Dragons claimed a 2-1 win over Marlin Coast, which helped them finish fourth on the ladder and book a semi-final berth.

Francisco Bravo and Francisco Dobla scored the Dragons goals.

This week the Dragons clash with Stratford Dolphins - a must win game if they are to make further finals' progress.

In ladies football action Douglas United FC Ladies team finished the season on a high with a gritty 0-0 result against Southside Comets.

Best on field was Renata Saide.

In their inaugural season it was a super effort to get a team together which showed the emerging depth of the club. A big congratulations to coaches Kyle Livingston and Jamie Quinn.

ABOVE: Mossman Port Douglas Sharks beat Mareeba 58-6 to claim the CDRL minor premiership. BELOW: Douglas United women's football team held on for a gritty 0-0 draw against Southside. Pictures: Contributed

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