The North Ballarat Rebels travelled to Horsham City Oval for their weekend TAC Cup match against the Western Jets. In slippery and wet conditions, the Rebels regained some confidence with a comfortable, but hard fought victory, on Sunday.
Before the game coach Anthony Rock's message was loud and clear, "each player is to give a four quarter effort" - and that's exactly what he got.
Clint Ladiges began the game brilliantly with a strong tackle and early snap on goal as the Rebels had the advantage of a strong breeze; the Jets worked hard against the wind and replied with two of their own to keep in touch at quarter time.
The second term saw a different Rebels side as they responded to a quick Jets goal. Aggressive tackling and constant pressure created opportunities for Daniel Batson, Darren Ewing and Martin Curtis to extend the lead.
Improving with each game, Daniel Batson's strong marking and aggression in ruck duels was a feature. Herring provided resistance across halfback and provided plenty of run to goal just before the long break.
The Jets came out hard to start the third term but captain Matt Rosa and Daniel Feery around the packs were now on top.
Nathan Anderson continued his good form (unlucky to miss state squad selection) and went forward to score three goals from strong marks and physical presence, which enabled the Rebels to shut the opposition out of the game.
Western persisted in the conditions and were able to outscore the Rebels, but three goals from twelve scoring shots to a solitary goal from Ewing in the final quarter wasn't enough to close the gap.
North Ballarat were happy to celebrate their victory which they hope is a sign of a place in the eight and a powerful finish to the second half of the season.
North Ballarat Rebels 14.10 (94) Western Jets 8.16 (64)
Best: Ryan Herring, Matt Rosa, Nathan Anderson, Ryan Harris, Daniel Batson, Daniel Feery, William Driscoll.
Goals. Nathan Anderson 3, Clint Ladiges 3, Daniel Batson 2, Darren Ewing 2, Martin Curtis 1, Ryan Harris 1, Ryan Herring 1, Clinton Young 1.
Last Modified on 08/02/2009 14:05