Match Report: Round 12 vs Cowboys

The hosts celebrated Luke Brooks’ 200th and Starford To’a’s 50th match in style by eclipsing the joint-venture’s previous record for most points scored in a match, which was set in 2004.

Wests Tigers got away to the dream start as skipper Api Koroisau hit Stefano Utoikamanu with a no-look pass and the prop crashed over the line.

Brandon Wakeham then doubled the hosts’ lead with a perfectly-placed cutout ball for Junior Tupou to score in front of the Wayne Pearce Hill.

Riding on the energy from the Leichhardt faithful, John Bateman sent Jahream Bula through the line and connected with Starford To’a.

In his milestone match, the Kiwi centre found an unmarked David Nofoaluma for the third try of the contest.

Brandon Wakeham’s second successful sideline conversion of the night extended the lead to eighteen points.

A cutout pass from Scott Drinkwater allowed Kyle Feldt to cross for the Cowboys’ first and only try of the first half.

With the home side’s lead sitting at twelve with one minute remaining before half time, Luke Brooks put through a speculative mid-field kick.

Kyle Feldt appeared to have the kick covered, but made a meal of the loose ball and instead gifted Jahream Bula his first NRL try.

Wests Tigers received a standing ovation from the Latchem Robinson Stand as they entered the sheds leading 24-6.

Tim Sheens’ men repeated their inspired start to the first half as Api Koroisau set up another try with a short ball to Fonua Pole.

A strong run from Junior Tupou extended the lead to thirty as the young winger completed his double.

Back-to-back tries to Luciano Leilua and Reuben Cotter briefly quietened the Leichhardt crowd, but a quick-fire double to Starford To’a had the hill back on its feet.

Joe Ofahengaue crashed over to bring up fifty points for the home side before a Brandon Wakeham intercept saw David Nofoaluma dive over in the corner.

A sideline conversion from Api Koroisau increased the lead to 42, before John Bateman crossed for his first try in the orange, black and white.

Ultimately, eight Wests Tigers players crossed for a total of eleven tries, while Brandon Wakeham, Api Koroisau and Luke Brooks combined for a perfect 11/11 off the tee.

Wests Tigers will now enjoy their second bye of the season before returning to Campbelltown to face the Raiders in Round 14.