The North Ballarat Rebels entrenched themselves in the TAC Cup top eight with a hard fought win over the NSW/ACT Rams in Canberra on Saturday.
Played in sensational conditions at Manuka Oval, the Rebels led at every change eventually running out winners by 13 points.
The Rams got away to a flying start in the first quarter, kicking three of the first four goals. The Rebels fought their way back into the contest courtesy of three first quarter goals from full forward Adam Campbell.
By quarter time the Rebels led 6.3 to NSW/ACT 4.3.
The second quarter began just like the first, with the Rams again scoring three of the first goals of the quarter. A late goal for Dean Chester giving the Rebels a slim eight point lead at the main break.
The second half was very much like the first with both sides giving little. Each time the Rebels increased their lead the Rams would reply.
Astute coaching from Anthony Rock in moving Luke Brennan to centre half forward had an instant impact with the Horsham youngster taking several telling marks in the second half. After a closely fought contest all day it took two freakish goals from Brett Goodes late in the last quarter to seal the result.
Injuries to Josh Thurgood and Paul Raworth were the only downside of the victory.
For the Rebels better players included onballers Brad Sewell and Adam fisher, Brett Goodes up forward and key defenders Dan Matthews and Troy Chaplin. Mark Nunn also played an outstanding game in the Ruck.
Saturday's win continues a remarkable turnaround for the Rebels. After losing their first four games of the season, they have now won 9 of their last 12 games.
The team returns to the Northern Oval this Saturday for their first home game in over a month when they take on the Geelong Falcons.
North Ballarat Rebels 14.12 (96) d NSW/ACT Rams 12.11 (83)
Goals: Campbell 2, Fisher 2, Goodes 2, Foster, Swanton, Sellers, Chester, George, Cartledge, Brennan.
Best: Sewell, Fisher, Goodes, Matthews, Chaplin, Nunn, Brennan
Last Modified on 08/02/2009 13:04