Unbeaten Dingos Maul The Hometown 'Cats at Mohawk Sports Park

This past weekend in Hamilton, the (2-3) Wildcats played host the (4-0) Toronto Dingos, who were sitting atop the OAFL ladder. As the Dingos were coming off a 2 week footy hiatus due to a bye and as well as a long weekend, Hamilton was hoping to catch the visitors napping and upset the “Champs”. As the first quarter got underway, the ‘Cats game plan seemed to be working, as Hamilton jumped out to an early 12 point lead with 2 quick goals from Captain Nick DiRago (who was playing in his first game in 7 weeks) and Mike “Mr. Incredible” Nolan respectively. When it looked as if the Dingos were on their heals and prime pickings for the Wildcats…the tables were turned. Toronto showed their toughness and experience as they closed the gap to within 1 point at the end of the 1st quarter trailing 2.2.14 to 2.1.13. Their momentum seemed to carry over into the second frame, but the hometown boys weren’t going away without a fight. Hamilton’s hard hitting and tenaciousness across the middle of the ground, seemed to keep the ‘Cats in the game as they only trailed by 15 points at the half. As the summer sun continued to beat down and heat up the field, it seemed to fuel the tempers as well. The hits got harder the more the game got out of reach for Hamilton, but actually worked in the Wildcats' favour for a short time as their agressive play helped to give them a glimmer of hope with a small handful of offensive bursts. Despite many fine performances by several Wildcats all over the ground, including Paul Lawson (broken ribs) playing strong in the backline versus a very tough Full Forward and Ken Tumak running flat out like a lizard drinking on the wing all afternoon, the Dingos took control from the start of the third quarter and eventually ran out winners on the day 12.7.79 to 2.7.19.