An emotional week ended on a higher note for the Rockbank Rams on Saturday.
The Riddell District Football League club players and supporters had been shattered by the death of one of their own the previous week.
But players held strong on Saturday to secure their first win of the season, defeating Kilmore by 47 points at Ian Cowie Reserve.
Rockbank coach Gavin Sporle said it had been an extremely tough time in the lead-up.
“We had a pretty emotional week at the football club,” he said.
“It had a pretty big impact on the group.
“It was great to get the first win on the board but the day was about so much more than that.”
Lachlan Calder was terrific for Rockbank in its win, with the key forward dominating the 50-metre arc.
Calder booted eight goals to take his season tally to 20. He is now sitting in fifth spot on the RDFL’s leading goalkicker list.
“Lachlan has been great for us all year,” Sporle said. “He is coming off knee surgery over the course of the off-season and he has slotted in really well in the club as a whole, not just as part of the senior side.
“The footy club hasn’t had a key forward for a long time so having someone who straightens us up and provides a key target is a huge boost.
“His form has been excellent.”
While Calder controlled the forward line, Jack Sims, Tim Senserrick and Harley Cameron were outstanding for Rockbank around the ground.
The 13.13 (91) – 6.8 (44) win is also the first for Sporle, who took over at the club in the off-season.
The result moves the Rams to ninth spot on the RDFL ladder, just two games outside the top six.
Rockbank will look to build on the momentum of its first win this weekend when the Rams go head-to-head with Woodend Hesket.
Meanwhile, in other results from the weekend, Diggers Rest edged Melton Centrals in a hard fought battle.
Romsey defeated Woodend-Hesket and the Sunbury Kangaroos were too good for Lancefield.
