Queanbeyan Tigers rise to the top of AFL Canberra as Gungahlin Jets falter

Queanbeyan rose to the top of the AFL Canberra ladder with a 166-point win over the Jets at Margaret Donoghoe Oval on Sunday.

The Tigers' 27.18 (180) to 2.2 (14) triumph bolsters their pursuit of back-to-back premierships, while losses to the tune of 166, 156, seven and 220 points leave Gungahlin winless after four rounds.

But Pavese maintains there is plenty to like about an emerging group of Jets.

"They're working hard and they pushed us at times. They've got a good young group coming through, and we certainly didn't take them for granted, I can guarantee you," Pavese said.

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"Hopefully they stay the course and stay strong because there is a lot to like about the youth of their side.

"It was good to get through and more importantly just play well. It's one of those things where you can get caught up and chase kicks, so we're really pleased we kept our systems in place."

Joey Stapleton led the charge with six goals while Lachie Highfield and Alex Page booted four apiece with 12 Tigers finding their way onto the score sheet.

But the hosts are sweating on scan results after losing Tyler Collins with a knee injury early in the contest, given he has played a major role in a new-look squad looking to defend the title.

"We lost a few [players from last year]. Harry Grant, Matt Vardanega, Kel Evans, Rhys Pollock is playing VFL this year, Tom Stapleton is playing VFL this year," Pavese said.

"We've lost a few in terms of our nuts and bolts so to speak, but we picked up a couple of handy players we didn't expect. Isaac Edgar is doing really well."

AT A GLANCE

AFL Canberra round four

QUEANBEYAN 7.4 12.6 18.13 27.18 (180)

GUNGAHLIN 0.0 0.1 1.1 2.2 (14)