The game was a tough slog in very heavy and very muddy conditions which slowed the run and bounce of the ball all day. The Swans travelled to Ballina knowing that the Bombers would be much more competitive than last time round as they are always tough to beat at home.
Ballina came out of the blocks early kicking the first two goals of the game before the Swans entered the forward 50. The Swans kicked back in the first however Ballina responded with a goal every time the Swans goaled. Ballina went into the first break with a 13 point advantage.
The Swans kicked with the slight breeze in the second playing great running football and only allowing the Bombers to score a rushed behind for the entire quarter while kicking 4 goals of there own. The Swans went into half time with a 13 point lead and looked like they where in a great position to take charge of the match.
The first half of the third quarter saw the Swans extend there lead slightly however the boys then totally dropped off in the the last 10 minutes of the quarter and to Ballina's credit picked up the intensity has Ballina stormed home to kick 5 goals in a row and lead by 10 points at the final break.
The final quarter was do or die and the Swans lifted the intensity with the one percenters in a very physical encounter. The Swans picked up the run and worked very hard until the final siren. Lismore had a few missed opportunities in the final term as they kicked 2 goals 10 for the quarter however a tremendous defencive performance to keep Ballina scoreless for the final term. The Swans coming from behind to win by 12 points. Lismore 10.18-78 to Ballina 10.6-66.
It was very encouraging to see the entire team step up to come away with the win. It was the first Ballina have been beaten at home in 3 years. A great achievement!
Goal Kickers were George Massa with 4, Jake Ryan 2, and singles to Wesley Seewald, Jake Ryan, Daniel Bruce and Mitch Montgomery.
Best on the day were Aaron Peters, Josh Mapstone, Jason Bevan, Liconln Shinners, Daniel Moloney and George Massa
Next week the Swans travel to Nimbin to take on the Demons for the first time this season.
Lismore Swans 3.2 7.5 8.8 10.18-78
Ballina Bombers 5.3 5.4 10.6 10.6-66
Last Modified on 29/12/2009 20:50