Rockbank was unable to capitalise on a hot start against Woodend-Hesket at the weekend, going down by 14 points in the Riddell District Football League.
With the advantage of a strong breeze, the Rams were unstoppable early in the contest, booting 4.6 in the opening quarter.
Rockbank’s back six also did its part, keeping Woodend-Hesket goalless for the opening 30 minutes.
But the momentum shifted when the teams switched ends, as Woodend-Hesket hit back with six goals of its own to take a one-point lead into the main break.
The second half played out like a replay of the first, with both teams dominating while using the breeze to advantage.
After Rockbank held the early lead, Woodend-Hesket again found form with five final-quarter goals to seal the 11.11 (77) – 9.9 (63) win.
Rockbank coach Gavin Sporle was taking a lot of positives from his side’s performance and said it was just a small lapse which proved costly.
“It was a pretty hard-fought game for all four quarters,” he said.
“Woodend probably just got a little bit of the run of play early in the last quarter, which they took advantage of.
“We had a flat spot in the first eight minutes or so and Woodend put the score on the board.
“They hit the front and were able to put a bit of a break between them and us. It turned into a real arm wrestle late, but we just couldn’t get over the line.”
On a tough day for his side, Harley Cameron was outstanding for Rockbank, booting four goals and winning a lot of crucial contests around the ground.
Also handy for the Rams was Jack Sims, who finished with two goals, while Saxon Woodroffe, Christopher Best and Tim Senserrick all fought hard.
Sporle was impressed with his side’s ability to defend, keeping Woodend goalless for two quarters.
“That area of our game was great, especially after the previous week when we were pretty disappointing against Rupertswood,” he said.
“Even in the second and last quarters, when they [Woodend] were kicking with the wind, we didn’t allow them to pile on goals. It was a real slog.”
Saturday’s result drops Rockbank to 11th on the RDFL ladder with the Rams holding a 2-10 record for the season.
Rockbank will take on second-placed Romsey this week.
