The North Ballarat Rebels have moved into second place on the TAC Cup ladder after a convincing victory over Gippsland Power on Saturday.
The Rebels showed no ill effects from their long bus trip to Morwell as they kicked the first 4 goals of the game. A late major from Gippsland reduced the lead to 24 points at quarter time.
Coach Anthony Rock implored his team to be more direct at the break and they took the advice on board as they kicked a further 6 unanswered goals in the second term to lead by 61 points at half time. The margin would have been far greater but for some inaccuracy in front of goal.
The second half began with a number of positional changes as the Rebels hierarchy took the opportunity to try players in different roles. Gippsland also swung the changes and came out firing after a half time burst from their coach that reverberated around the Morwell ground.
Sensing an easy victory North Ballarat seemed to take it's foot off the pedal in the final term as they were outscored by the home team 3 goals to 2.
The result however was in little doubt with the Rebels winning by 67 points as they restricted the opposition to just 5 goals for the game.
Rover Mick Foster was once again outstanding, dominating the centre clearances. He was well supported by centre half forward Ryan Herring who continues to impress and the improving Brendan Huf. Clinton Young led the goal kickers with 3 goals.
The only injury concern was a concussion sustained by Ayden George. He will have ample time to recover however as the TAC Cup enjoys a week's break.
The Rebels next game is a home fixture against the Geelong Falcons at Melville Oval in Hamilton. With just 2 point buffer from 3rd place the team will have to win each of it's last 3 games to maintain a top 2 finish.
North Ballarat Rebels 15.14 (104) d Gippsland Power 5.7 (37)
Goals: Young 3, Anderson 2, Chester 2, Herring 2, Parkin 2, Adcock, Huf, Ladiges, Pyke
Best: Foster, Herring, Huf, Gardner, Anderson, Sharkey
Last Modified on 08/02/2009 13:44