Bull Sharks stalwart Connor Pritchard scored two tries but it wasn't enough to bridge the gap.
by Jordan Hughes
The bye has arrived just in time for the Bull Sharks after the premier side was demolished by the Tigers in the battle for the Batty Bremner Thomas Trophy.
The 47-19 thumping has raised concerns over Bond’s ability to handle key moments as the championship reaches the halfway point.
Halfback Spencer Jeans said fatigued players would benefit from the break.
“Our defence on our own tryline was not where it needs to be if we want to be serious title contenders,” said Jeans.
“A lot of the boys have played big minutes each week so it will be good for those guys to rest up and give us a chance to review our performances heading into the second half of the season.”
Bond was on the back foot from the beginning of the round 9 match as the hosts raced to a 12-0 lead after only 12 minutes.
Bond finally hit the scoreboard when 2021 John Eales Rugby Excellence Scholarship recipient Joey Fittock found space and delivered the ball to Abele Atunasia.
The remainder of the first half was a tight contest with the physicality of both sides on display. Bond went into the halftime break trailing 12-5.
The second half began with a quick try from Tigers prop Rhys Van Nek. But when Bond Uni scored moments later through Connor Pritchard, it was game on.
The Tigers lifted again to score four consecutive tries after some disappointing defence from the Bull Sharks.
Pritchard crossed late for his second try to bridge the gap, but it was the Tigers’ day to take the silverware.
“Easts managed their kicking game really well throughout game which really put us on the back foot and was an area we struggled with throughout the day,” said Jeans
“We are all so passionate about this team so after a loss it’s going to hurt.
“But the message is simple, we can’t expect to put out a poor performance and come away with the win.”
Head Coach Grant Anderson has implored his side to be consistent if they want to reach the grand final.
Bond University will next feature at The Canal on July 2.