Gippsland Power made better use of the wind advantage to defeat a disappointing North Ballarat Rebels in their TAC game at Morwell on Saturday.
Both teams had included a number of young players because they had representatives involved in the under 18 national championships, but in the context of the season the outcome of the game was important to both.
The Rebels had first use of the scoring end but the quarter was one of mistakes and turnovers as both sides applied pressure.
Late in the quarter Steven Tug was rewarded for a great tacked and goaled, only to be followed by a quick reply from the Power.
The second term was all Gippsland as they completely outplayed North Ballarat to kick nine goals to one.
Youngster Matt Tyler was outstanding in defence and Daniel Batson and Nathan Anderson were trying hard to combat an opposition that had complete control of the game.
The Rebels started the third term with goals to Chris Keilar, Brendan Huf and Steve Clifton and when Fred Saunders used his strength to kick another, the Power looked as if they may crack under the pressure.
Daniel Feery, Huf and Tung were prominent around the ground and Tyler Continued to work hard, but Gippsland to their credit steadied with 2 goals late in the term.
A long kick from Batson and further early last quarter goals to Bill Driscoll and Evan Hurse closed the gap, but Gippsland again responded to kick the last five goals of the game to run out easy winners.
The Rebels now have a difficult, but not impossible task ahead to gain a spot in the eight and participate in this seasons finals.
Gippsland Power 19.14 (128) d North Ballarat Rebels 9.10 (64)
Best: Tyler, Feery, Huf, Batson, Anderson, Tung
Goals: Driscoll 2, Batson, Clifton, Huf, Hurse, Keilar, Saunders, Tung
Last Modified on 08/02/2009 14:13