A powerful second half surge by North Beach in the A-grade clash with University last week could be the start of an energized run to the finals for the defending premiers.

With a number of senior players working their way back after injury and into match fitness, the Tigers roared home after trailing by 13 points at half-time, to score an emphatic 39-point victory.

That was the result of a nine goals to one second half and the club will be hoping to carry that momentum forward, not just for this week’s game against Wembley, but in the ensuing weeks.

This week would be a good time to take another step forward with a large contingent of past players expected to be at the club for the clash with last year’s runners-up.

Against Uni, Mitch Holbrook was lively deep in attack with five goals while Josh McGinnity also kicked three. Brent Stewart, Matt Fong and “Jacko” Harwood were also solid contributors.

The A-reserves endured in an enthralling battle, with little separating the two teams all day, before winning by nine points – 12.9 (81) to 11.6 (72).

Nick Morling was a reliable avenue to goal up forward, finishing with seven goals, while Jon Turner, Byron Boys and Jason Plant were also solid contributors.

The reserves are equal on points with Trinity Aquinas and face an interesting battle against another top four team in Wembley this week.

The Phil Scott colts team maintained a solid run of form to easily account for University, despite the fact that several front line players were missing through injury or illness.

The game was never in doubt as North Beach controlled the midfield and powered away to a 61-point triumph, Sam Keely kicking five goals to capitalise on the work of players like Matt Bajars and Jason Hall, who also kicked three goals apiece.

Chris Douglas was under notice through the midfield and in attack while Nathan Holden dominated at centre half-forward and Michael Willett was steady in defence.

The Laurie Keene team squandered a handy 22-point advantage at three-quarter time before falling to an agonizing one-point defeat at the hands of Collegians.

The Tigers seemed in control for most of the game, relaxed a little in the last quarter and paid a hefty price. Simon Wilson played strongly across half-forward and through the middle while Ryan Staniforth was consistent throughout, Justin Plant answered the many defensive challenges thrown at him and Brett Lague provided good rebound from half-back.

The E-grade team also scored an impressive victory, with Shane Piggott, Justin Sajich, Michael Duckworth and Luke Tozer all influential. Unfortunately, the E-reserves had to be satisfied with a forfeit.