RDFL: Winelss Rockbank hoping history repeats

Rockbank president Mark Smith is looking for a change of fortune that mirrors last season’s early rounds.

The Rams had an ice-cold start to the Riddell District Football League season last year, dropping four of their first five games.

But after not playing finals for 13 years, the club stormed home to book a place in September.

After three rounds of the 2015 season, Rockbank is yet to register a win.

“I think they’re trying a bit too hard,” Smith said.

“They’ve just forgotten how to win. In all three games, we’ve been in it at three-quarter time but just haven’t quite got over the line.

“We were 1-4 last year and were able to come home pretty well. We’re just hoping to get a win very soon. You start to see the season slip away if you don’t.”

Rockbank has dropped games against Melton Centrals, Wallan and Lancefield, all sides which finished below them last year.

One thing that has gone right for the Rams so far this season is the form of recruit Lachlan Calder.

After crossing over from the Western Region Football League in the off-season, Calder has booted 11 goals in his first three matches, putting him equal third in the league overall.

“Lachlan has just started to hit his straps,” Smith said.

“He’s given us something up front and has been working hard.

“We’re just turning the ball over a little easily at the moment and we’re costing ourselves goals at the other end.”

After having a bye last week, the Rams take on Broadford in a must-win away match this week.

After missing the finals last year, the Kangaroos have made a solid start to the season and are 2-1 after three games.