IT was four seasons in one as Darley shocked East Point in the Ballarat Football League.
Playing in tough conditions, Darley broke away in the second term to record a 39-point win, 16.10 (106) to 9.13 (67).
Darley coach Rod McPherson said he was happy with the win considering the conditions.
“It’s the first time we have defeated a team above us this season so it was a good win,” he said.
“I was happy at quarter-time as they had the breeze in the first term, but we were still in front.
“We had a strong second term before the rain came in the third term.
“They adjusted to the conditions better and kicked four quick goals, but we were able to kick four late in the term to stop their run.”
McPherson said wins like this helped with the club’s rebuilding.
“We are rebuilding after the season we had last year and trying to get stability and confidence,” he said.
“We’re starting to get players back from injury, like Brendan Porter, who has returned from a knee reconstruction and kicked six goals in each of the past two matches.
“It’s about rebuilding the self-belief and starting to work together.”
McPherson said Shaun Deckert played a starring role, shutting down Daniel Jordan. “Dan had to put himself in the middle a couple of times to try and get the ball as Shaun was doing such a good job.”
He said Jake and Jarrod Edwards were among the best.
This week Darley faces Ballarat.
“It’s another challenge, with Ballarat of the cusp of the top teams, McPherson said.
“We’re playing them at home, but our record is far better away from home for some reason. Hopefully, we can change that.”
