Despite the game being played at the Huskisson Sporting Fields, goals from Mitch and Dale Blundell were enough to secure the Cougars their third straight win of the season.

“I thought we had the better of the play for the first 25 minutes – as we really focused on getting control of the midfield and looking after possession,” Culburra’s Stephen Gray said.

“But an injury derailed our momentum a little, which saw us concede a goal just before half-time.

“After the break, we got back to basics – holding the ball up well and creating strong build up play.

“This led to us getting back on top and scoring two goals, the last with 10 minutes to play.

“Overall, the first part of the game and the whole second half was the best the team has played in a long time.

“We really wanted this win and it showed by the way the boys knuckled down and we able to run the toughest team we’ve faced this year, off their feet.”

In the win, Gray highlighted the play of Lindsey Higgins, Harry Ellem and goal keeper Tom Matthews.

“Everyone played well and helped execute our plan on Saturday,” he said.

“In particular, Tom [Matthews] was amazing and probably has been our best player in each of our first three games.

“Some of the saves he pulled off were incredible – I doubt many keepers in this league would be able to replicate them.”

In the loss, the Seagulls goal was scored by Michael Hampton.

Matching the Cougars’ 3-0 start to the year are the reigning premiers Bomaderry, who dispatched on Sussex 5-1.

In the Tigers win at the Thompson Street Sporting Complex, the goal scorers were Sam Baxter (two), Jordan Haddow (two) and Brad Bailey.

The final team to be sitting on nine points after three rounds, thanks to two wins and a bye, are Illaroo.

In their first game at Sharman Park this season, Andrew Timbs’ troops smashed Manyana 5-nil, thanks to goals from Lachlan Hucman (two), Josh Woods (two) and Evan Leedham.

Elsewhere, Gerringong were stunned in their home opener, being dismantled by Milton-Ulladulla 4-nil.

Zane Wilson’s third goal in as many weeks, as well as goals from Jarrod Murray, Logan Murray and Marty Moran secured the Panthers’ second win of the season.

The round’s final game saw Alex Dicker chalk up his first win in charge of Shoalhaven United, who edged out St Georges Basin 2-1.

Goals from Billy Wallington and Shaun Aldous proved to be the difference, despite a goal from Dragons’ Jake Moffatt.

Shoalhaven Heads/Berry had the bye.