Melton let slip a strong first quarter, registering a second straight loss in the Ballarat Football League.
The Bloods had 10 scoring shots in the opening quarter against Lake Wendouree and led by 15 points at the first break.
They still led at half-time despite going score-less for the second quarter, but a seven-goal-to-one third quarter turned the game in favour of the Lakers which led by 29 points at the last break.
The Bloods kicked three goals in the last quarter, but it wasn’t enough and they lost 15.7 (97)-10.10 (70).
It was a disappointing day for the Bloods after a promising start.
They has just 10 scoring shots after quarter-time, after having that many in the first quarter.
Braedan Kight kicked three goals for the Bloods and Matt Denham was named their best.
Ladder-leaders Bacchus Marsh had no troubles against Redan.
The Cobras led by 40 points at quarter-time and for much of the game looked on track to win by 100 points.
The Lions kicked the first five goals of the last quarter to add some respectability to the score before the Cobras regrouped, winning 19.22 (136)-12.9 (81).
Jake Owen kicked six goals for a second straight week and Aaron Willitts kicked five. Owen was named the Cobras’ best, along with ruckman Daniel Burton, who has returned to his form of 2016 when the Cobras won the premiership.
The Cobras sit percentage clear of East Point.
It was a tough start for new Melton South coach Heath Pritchard.
Pritchard took over the role during the week, with the club sacking Ash Manning and Brendan Fevola stepping down to assistant coach.
The Panthers were goalless in the first half against Sebastopol and while they were able to get on the scoreboard in the second half, couldn’t bridge the gap.
The Burras won 9.18 (72)-3.14 (32). Mitch Golby was the best for the Panthers. The Panthers are one of two sides without a win.
Darley had the bye.
Tara Murray
