Merimbula Diggers edged out the Sea Eagles in an impressive last-quarter effort to emerge winners 14.9.93 to 12.11.83.

It was a disappointing effort by Tathra, who entered the contest as heavy favourites in front of a large home crowd cheering their every move.

With the aid of a strong wind, the Diggers burst out of the blocks in an impressive opening term display to boot six goals to one.

Key forward Chase McIntosh established his dominance early and finished the game with five goals.

Sea Eagles veteran Dave “Croc” Little arrived at the game late after getting married on Friday in Canberra.

The return of Croc to the backline steadied the ship in the second quarter, as Tathra began their fight-back to trail by just four points at the main break.

Midfielders Jay Mase and Matt McBain were outstanding in this quarter, consistently providing run and allowing opportunities for their leading forwards.

Brad McBain took full advantage of his chances to boot a couple to give his side a sniff.

The third term proved to be as tight as the second, with both teams moving an extra man into defence.

Tathra’s Ryan O’Loghlin took full advantage of this rare sweeping opportunity in the backline, bringing an extra dimension into the game.

The Sea Eagles went into the final quarter one goal down but full of confidence, as they realised the importance of the wind factor.

But poor discipline and an apparent lack of respect for their opponents led to Merimbula taking full toll of the Eagles’ inattention to the contest and, in the face of the breeze, eventually won by 10 points.

Full credit must go to the Diggers who were led by veteran midfielder Grant Regan, forwards McIntosh and Daniel Edwards and backmen Bryce Harling, who restricted Brad McBain to just three goals.

Tathra should be disappointed with their skills in the final term, particularly in marking and fumbling, which didn’t complement their brilliant attacking play in the second and third terms.

The side had it all for the taking at three-quarter time but will be left to lament what could have been.

In a more positive note for the Tathra Football Club, their under 13s, 15s and 17s remain in contention for a grand final berth.

The Diggers will now face the winner of Saturday’s major semi-final between Batemans Bay and Pambula for a shot at this year’s grand final.