Leigh Spiteri leaps for the ball for the Western Jets. Photo: Damian Visentini
PICTURE GALLERY: Western Jets v NSW-ACT Rams
A best-on-ground performance from Liam Duggan helped the Western Jets to a 50-point smashing of the NSW-ACT Rams in the TAC Cup on Saturday.
Despite a strong wind at Williamstown’s Burbank Oval, Duggan was outstanding, booting three goals and winning plenty of important ball around the ground.
Jets coach Torin Baker was impressed with the versatile Duggan’s performance.
“Liam was outstanding,” Baker said.
“He played both midfield and in the forward line.
‘‘His use of the ball, even his marking, was a real highlight of his game.
‘‘He’s coming along really well and we’re really pleased with what he has been able to do.”
After a hard-fought first half, the Jets ran away with the game in the third term.
Western kicked six goals to the Rams’ two to help secure the 14.14 (98) to 5.8 (38) win.
“I think the best thing about the third quarter was the way we delivered the ball inside 50,” Baker said.
“That was the biggest difference from the second quarter.
‘‘That’s something we have been practising fairly heavily over the last few weeks and to make the most of the opportunities in that third quarter was really pleasing.”
Brenton Payne and Billy Myers were also solid contributors for the Jets.
The win continues Western’s push towards the finals.
The Jets are in seventh spot on the ladder with a 7-7 record. They hold a one game and 20 percentage-point lead over the ninth-placed Eastern Ranges.
Baker said he had discussed the prospect of playing finals with his players.
“Everyone is thinking about it, so there’s no point not talking about it,” he said.
“The fact is we are in the top eight, so we control our own destiny.
“Making sure that you win games takes the pressure off later in the year.
“We had a lot of players out through the national championships and with school football. But over the next few weeks we will resemble a full squad, which is exciting.
“Hopefully, we will be able to make the most of our opportunities come the last few games.”
The Jets will take on the Sandringham Dragons (sixth) this week.
