The Rebels travelled to ABD Group Stadium in Coburg on Sunday, intent on rectifying a two game losing streak to Geelong Falcons and Gold Coast. With a number of players rested because of State duties, Kurt Aylett returned to the side and Martin Dufty was selected for his first game and Matt Sully returned following Jandre Slabbert’s late withdrawal due to illness. Also returning to the Rebels starting line-up was Jake Ward.
Despite being primed for a big effort after consecutive losses, it was the Calder Cannons who came out firing with a four goal first quarter, many of which were scored at the end of easy clearances from the Rebels forward half. The Cannon’s intensity surpassed that of the Rebels, who could only manage one goal for the term, the result of a strong overhead mark by Dylan Parish, and a steady kick from 45 metres.
The second quarter also opened badly for the Rebels with a goal to the Cannons after 30 seconds of play and Sam Cowling suffering an ankle injury in an overhead contest, the spillage from which also resulted in another goal to Calder. Oliver Tate lifted his work rate, as did Chris Giampaolo and Josh Free, to give some impetus to the Rebels’ cause and chances for the forward line. Josh Free’s clever snap goal after 9 minutes lifted Rebels’ spirits but, as in previous weeks, poor disposal with both foot and hand repeatedly turned the ball over to the opposition, and the Cannons scored twice from Rebels’ errors to establish a commanding 8 goal lead at the main change.
The half-time break allowed the Rebels to re-group and consider both game and ladder positions.
Positional changes were also called for and Marcus Darmody, a consistently reliable defender this season, was moved to full-forward where his quick leading ability and strong marking could hopefully be utilised. The Cannons again grabbed their chances early on and scored two quick goals to make matters even more difficult for the Rebels. Marcus Darmody did not disappoint however, and he offered repeated and confident leads to mark and score four goals for the quarter. Dean Gavin’s consistent form continued and he persistently won his share of mid-field contests to push the ball forward and create opportunities for team mates. Having outscored the opposition for the quarter, the Rebels were challenged to build on their hard work in contesting the ball at every opportunity in the final quarter.
Kurt Aylett’s late third-quarter calf injury further restricted options for the Rebels and the Cannons continued to win the ball around the ground, providing tall forwards Fewster and Temel opportunities that resulted in 5 goals to each player. Jake Dunne’s mid-quarter goal did little to temper the Rebels’ their thorough disappointment in a 69 point loss.
Next week’s home clash with the Eastern Ranges provides an important opportunity for the Rebels to rebound from three consecutive, disappointing losses and to demonstrate that they are genuine contenders as they move into the second half of the season.
Last Modified on 22/06/2009 12:10