FORMER coach Dave Nolen played his first game in more than a year, after recovering from a horrible leg injury, as the Wollongong Lions outlasted Kiama on Saturday.
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Nolen broke his leg and also needed a knee reconstruction after an incident in 2015.
But in an emotional return, Nolen was among the Lions best players, as the premiers held on in a thriller, winning 10.5 (65) to 9.6 (60).
“It was great seeing Dave out there, I’m sure the win was pretty special for him,” coach Ray Burgess said. “They were really good Kiama, there’s no doubt they’re going to be right there come finals time.
“We just spoke about trying to get some more outside ball (at three-quarter time) and create some run.
“The boys responded and it was a really tight finish, so we’re happy to get the win.”
Ken Ewen-Chappell, who is back in the fold at the Lions this year, booted four goals, as they overturned an 11-point deficit with a quarter to play. The Lions kicked four unanswered goals in the final term, before Kiama pulled one back, but couldn’t find another to win.
It puts the premiers on top of the ladder, having already overcome grand final rivals the Bulldogs this year.
The Dogs outgunned Nowra to win by 104 points, as Shellharbour thrashed Bomaderry.
AFL SOUTH COAST
Round three
Lions 10.5 (65) d Kiama 9.6 (60), Bulldogs 22.19 (151) d Nowra-Albatross 7.5 (47), Shellharbour 14.7 (91) d Bomaderry 7.4 (46), Figtree 16.12 (108) d Northern Districts 9.5 (59)
Tim Barrow
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
