By Tara Murray
Rupertswood was left to rue a poor final quarter, as Diggers Rest ran over the top of them to secure victory in the opening round of the Riddell District Football League.
Rupertswood was keen to continue its winning streak against the Burras, which dates back to 2016, and showed periods of dominance during the game.
A strong third quarter had them in front heading into the final quarter, but they failed to fire a shot in the last.
The Burras kicked six goals to nil in the final quarter, to win 12.12 (84)-8.8 (56).
Sharks coach Nick Ash said they were made to pay for not staying focused the whole four quarters.
“We played two good quarters, the first and third quarters, and then a poor second and fourth quarter.
“It came down to a want and who wanted it more, they wanted it. They were better and wanted the ball better than we did.”
Ash said there were few four-quarter performances within his playing group. He highlighted John Barnard, who rucked all day, and Cam McRorie (two goals) as two players who were good all day.
“There was a couple more that were three-quarter performers, but most were halves or quarters, if that.”
Ash said the loss had delivered an early lesson heading into what is expected to be another close season.
“I said to the boys if this doesn’t hurt, you’re not going to improve, if you don’t improve what’s the point?
“So it’s up to them.”
PHOTO GALLERY: Diggers Rest vs Rupertswood
The Sharks this week face Romsey, which had a bye in round one.
They will still be without three of their biggest names who all missed round one.
Brett Chambers, Dean Putt and Leigh Wellington were all interested onlookers on the bench during the loss.
Ash said Wellington, who recently had knee surgery, was most likely to return first.
“Leigh may be available Anzac Day or the week after if everything goes to plan.
“Chambo is coming from a knee injury and will hopefully be back around round six or seven. He’s been training since the start of the year.
“Putty reckons he’s one or two weeks after. It’ll depend on how he rehabs.”
In other results, Melton Centrals had a day out against Rockbank, winning 35-10 (220)-0.2 (2).
Dylan Weir kicked 12 goals in a best on ground performance for the winners, as half the team hit the scoreboard.
Macedon won the Puka Up Cup for a second straight year, beating Riddell 11.9 (75)-8.13 (61).
Woodend-Hesket outplayed Lancefield, winning 18.17 (125)-4.1 (25), while there was no surprises as Wallan beat Broadford, 25.21 (171)-8.11 (59).
MORE RDFL NEWS
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/diggers-rest-break-drought/
