Melton Centrals returned to the winners’ list for the first time since round 1, but it wasn’t without a fight against Rockbank in the Riddell District Football League.
With only one win between the two sides entering the match, and a Centrals’ victory in an early season match-up between them, both sides were keen to taste victory.
Centrals started well and led by 31 points at the first break, and this proved the difference, as they went on to win 15.16 (106)-12.10 (82).
The Rams, though, made the Centrals work hard for the win, not letting the margin blow out. The Rams won both the second and last quarters, the first quarters they’ve won all year.
Michael Egan, returning from a hamstring injury, kicked five goals in a best-on-ground performance for the Centrals.
Thomas Robinson, who kicked two goals, and Cole Harvey were also among the best for the Centrals.
For the Rams, it was by far their best performance of the year.
It was only the second time they had scored more than 30 points for a game this season, and the final tally was 39 points higher than their previous best score. Result-wise it was also their best; they hadn’t been closer than 73 points at the end of a game.
Alan Greenwood kicked four goals, while Jake Warwick and Leigh Sporle kicked two goals each.
Warwick, Greenwood and Mark Steven were the best for the Rams.
Centrals, who will finish the year in 11th spot, takes on Broadford in the final round of the season.
Rockbank’s tough season will come to an end against Wallan who is fighting for a finals spot.
