The Eagles took charge in the third quarter to build a big lead and hold on for a near-30 point win as they downed the visitors 13-8-86 to 8-11-59. 

However, it was the key positive result for the Sea Eagles, who went down to the Whalers in ladies play 77-49 to 2-4-16. 

Tathra’s reserve grade were also handed a defeat after a top of the table clash with the Merimbula Diggers saw the visitors taking the spoils 11-11-77 to 9-3-57.

The headline senior game played out in blustery conditions at Tathra’s Lawrence Park as the club unveiled progress on renovations and upgrades to the facilities on Saturday. 

The Whalers showed plenty of enthusiasm in early passages, with a fast and furious battle for central clearances emerging as the centrepoint of play. 

A regular back line player, Luke Taylor was pushed into the forward half to great effect, kicking four goals for the home team to lead the charge. 

Louis Coulton had some good shots from range to bag three, while midfield players Troy O’Loghlin and Rick Spink each picked up a pair. 

Eden were best served by young guns Nathan Sebire and Luke Grewar, while defender Scott Munday was solid in his efforts to contain the Tathra forwards. 

As the howling winds returned, Eden closed the gap in the final quarter, scoring just shy of 40 points, but Tathra’s existing lead and a four-goal quarter kept the Sea Eagles clear.  

Meanwhile, Eaglettes coach Col Funston said the Whalers were extremely strong in the women’s contest. 

“Our girls fought hard all day, but Eden were too strong in most areas on Saturday, especially clearing the ball from stoppages,” Mr Funston said. 

“We have a few areas to work on at training. Eden are currently the clear favourites for this year’s flag based on past month of football.”

Rochelle Tarlinton and Tyjana Blacka kicked goals for Tathra, while Eden danger forward Kamilla Grubesic bagged four for the visitors in their win. 

In the ressies, Grant Vine and Daniel Natusch were two of the best for Tathra, but the Diggers proved just a little too strong, taking home a 20-point win. 

The Pambula Panthers host the Tathra Sea Eagles in all three senior games this Saturday at the Pambula Sporting Complex with play to go ahead from 11.50am for the reserve grade contest. 

Ladies at 1.10pm and the first bounce in the senior showdown at 2.30pm.