Easts Tigers put in a gritty performance to defeat Northern Pride 14-4 away from home.
The Tigers led 10-4 at the break and scored the only try of the second half in the 62nd minute to hold on for the win.
Brodie Croft performed well and was part of a rock-solid partnership with Patrick Kaufusi on the right edge.
Kaufusi was among the Tigers best again, evening laying of an assist in the game with some clever hands.
“Patrick was very strong, playing on the right edge and a bit of front row for us in tough conditions,” Easts coach Scott Sipple said.
“He is leading the line speed on his right edge. With Brodie Croft there, they shut down a lot of plays from Northern Pride.
“He is very aggressive and the rest of the boys are feeding of that. Everyone says games start in the defence and he is leading the way in that respect.”
Easts Tigers 14 (Joseph Bond, Conor Carey, Kea Pere tries; Brayden Torpy goal) def Northern Pride 4 (Justin Castellaro try) at Barlow Park.
