Melton South finally broke through for its first win of the Ballarat Football League season and the Panthers did it in style.
Coming off the back off a disappointing 124-point loss the previous round to East Point, the Panthers had a 232-point turn around on Saturday against Ballarat.
After not looking like getting a win in recent weeks, the Panthers were at their best in the 27.14 (176)-11.6 (72) win.
Panthers coach Heath Pritchard said there had been a frank and honest discussion during the week leading up to the game.
“We were pretty honest with each other and what we produced against East Point,” he said.
“We spoke about what was acceptable and we’ve now set that bench mark.
“We’ve got another challenge going out against Redan this week.
“We’ll keep putting things in place about the way we want to go about things.”
The win on Saturday was never in doubt for the Panthers, as they kicked 10 goals to two in the first quarter.
It was a sign of things to come as the Panthers kicked at least five goals in each quarter, while the Swans could manage not more than three in a quarter.
Pritchard said they moved the ball well and put the pressure on the Swans players.
The Panthers made the most of having VFL listed player Dylan Conway, who kicked 10 goals in a best on ground performance.
Pritchard said on the form he showed, he didn’t expect to see him again this season.
“Having Dylan helped us, but even if we didn’t have him I think we still would have won,” he said.
“He had a bye and then was dropped by Port Melbourne. He came back to us and his work rate was fantastic.
“He performed really well and I have no doubt he’ll be playing with Port Melbourne this week.
“He came back and played well and we can’t ask for anything more from him.”
Pritchard said he thought everyone contributed in the win and could have named a number of players in the best.
He highlighted Matthew Notman, Matt Sullivan, Dillion Sharp and Mark Lynch as some of the standouts.
Pritchard said he was thrilled of the performance of acting captain Lachlan Watkins.
“He’s only 21,” he said.
“He’s a great kid and always at training. He leads in many respects anyway with the way he goes about things.
“When Shaun White was out, Lachie was an obvious choice to make captain. He carried the mantle and made a statement.”
The Panthers this week face Redan, which is the only team without a win.
