By Trevor Jackson
Hatherleigh v Tantanoola
It will be a tough Round 4 of Mid South East football for Tantanoola when they face what is fast becoming the benchmark side in the competition in Hatherleigh.
The Eagles have taken all before them this season so far, despite a couple of early-game scares.
In the opening round Mount Burr came out firing but the Eagles were on top and claimed a convincing victory.
In Round 2 they made short work of Nangwarry, while another tough hitout ensued at Robe for the Anzac clash.
Again Hatherleigh claimed a comfortable victory and sit top of the ladder.
Tantanoola comes off a bye, with players refreshed and ready to go.
The Tigers have claimed one win this season, against Nangwarry in the opening round.
That was a heart-in-mouth result, with the Saints right in the contest until the final minutes of the game.
In Round 2 they pushed Robe all the way, succumbing in the end by just 16 points.
Hatherleigh has simply been untouchable so far this season.
Robe is the only team to really threaten the Eagles and in the Anzac clash last round, were in the contest up to the long break.
The Eagles held a comfortable lead at half time but broke the game open from there.
With coach Jake Dowdy off the half forward line and a strong focal point deep in the attacking 50 in the form of Jake Wight – plus many others keen to kick a goal – Hatherleigh appears on track for a tilt at post-season glory in 2022.
While the Tigers might be rested and ready for Round 4, they will not come close to the Eagles, who should romp away with this one.
