Bacchus Marsh has achieved a lot in the past 12 months on the football field, including winning its first Ballarat Football League premiership – but there was one thing it hadn’t ticked off.
Try as they might, the Cobras still couldn’t overcome their nemesis, Redan.
The last time the Cobras defeated the Lions was June 7, 2008. But on Saturday the Cobras finally broke that drought with a comprehensive win.
The Cobras approached the game as if it was a final and came out firing.
By half-time they were in control and held a 44-point lead.
Redan fought back in the second half to make it a more even contest, winning the third quarter.
But the Cobras regrouped to take full advantage of the work they’d done in the first half, going on to win 12.9 (81)-4.6 (30).
Cobras coach Travis Hodgson said it was a relief to finally knock off Redan.
“There’s a big chance we’ll play them in the finals, so getting a win now is important,” he said.
“It was pretty comprehensive and we set it up early. In four of our games we’ve been up at half-time by eight goals. We’re setting up our wins in the first half.”
Jarrah Maksymow kicked four goals for the Cobras, while Hamish Coulton and Alec Del Papa kicked three each.
Hodgson said they tried different players up forward, hoping to find more goalkicking options and take the pressure off Maksymow.
“Two weeks ago, against Melton, Jarrah kicked one goal and we had 11 goal scorers,” he said.
“Jarrah has adapted … and the spread is getting better. His numbers might drop, but others are stepping up.”
The Cobras, who have lost just one game, have a tough fortnight ahead – they face North Ballarat City and then undefeated Lake Wendouree.
Hodgson said the next two weeks could set up their season.
“We’re only starting to see where everyone fits and know where we stand,” he said.
The Redan win tops off a good week for the Cobras, with Hodgson re-signing as coach until the end of 2019.
Cobras president Adam Sutherland said it was a no-brainer to keep Hodgson on board.
“Travis has brought a lot of experience and a high level of coaching to the club and we’re delighted to have him on board for another two years,” Sutherland said.
Hodgson said the faith the club had shown in him meant they could start planning for the future.
“The only challenge was working around work,” he said. “I work in Thornbury and live in Sunbury. I’ve got a supportive wife and family who are happy for me to keep coaching.”
In other results, Darley smashed East Point 23.16 (154)-9.6 (60). Kyle Docherty kicked nine goals for the Devils. Melton South returned to the winners’ list with a 21.13 (139)-10.9 (69) victory against Ballarat. Mitch Banner starred up forward with seven goals.
