THE North Ballarat Roosters remain hot on the heels of a finals berth after holding off the Werribee Tigers on Saturday, writes David O'Neill
The Roosters’ fourth win from their past five games keeps them level on points with the eighth-paced Northern Blues and still in premiership contention.
In windy conditions at Eureka Stadium, the Roosters controlled the opening three quarters and appeared on track for a comfortable victory over a strong Tigers' outfit.
But for the second week in a row Werribee came with a rush in the final quarter to breathe new life into the contest.
Two goals on the trot from debutant and 23rd player George Cameron (Geelong Falcons) had the visitors within nine points at the 20-minute mark and come-from-behind victory loomed.
But again the Tigers were denied as the Steve Clifton dribbled through a long range attempt to steer the Roosters home.
Earlier, Roosters captain Michael Searl got his team off to the perfect start with a goal inside the first 15 seconds of the match.
Searl would add only one more to his tally for the rest of the afternoon but provided the hosts with a valuable target up forward.
The elusive Nathan Horbury (21 disposals) and Billy Driscoll also finished with two apiece, while powerful midfielder Lachlan George, with a goal and 21 disposals, was named best-on-ground.
He was well supported youngster Nick Rippon (27), and Oliver Tate (27) who was at his creative best off half back.
With handful of North Melbourne listed players on either side, Kangaroo fans would have enjoyed the match-ups on offer.
Ben Mabon, the Kangaroo’s fourth choice ruckman held his own against Majak Daw and Daniel Currie, as the two Tiger big man rotated out of full forward.
Daw managed two goals opposed to Kangaroo teammate Luke Delaney, but the Roosters’ big man won the battle with an impressive defensive display.
Liam Anthony and Levi Greenwood also eyed off one another in the centre square, with Anthony (30 disposals) getting the points to be a of the Roosters’ best.
In a day not designed for the making men, Ben Warren never gave up and was rewarded with two last quarter goals to finish with three for the Tigers
Captain Jarred Moore was another to shine for the visitors with 20-plus possessions and six clearances.
The Roosters can continue to press for a finals spot when they take on Coburg at Mantello Holden next Sunday, while Werribee enjoys a week off after playing its Round 16 encounter with Port Melbourne in the first week of the season.
Photo: Mark Bruty
Last Modified on 29/07/2013 15:22