By Tara Murray
Macedon produced its best performance of the year to knock off Wallan in a Riddell District Football League elimination final on Sunday.
After not much split the two teams the last time they played, it was expected to be a tough, tight contest again.
It was that way for the first half, before the Cats were able to start winning more of the ball.
They made the most of that and were able to put it on the scoreboard, winning 20.14 (134)-11.10 (76).
Cats coach Ben Tankard said it was the best performance they had put in this season.
“We were always aiming to be playing our best footy at the back end of the year, but it hasn’t worked that way with injuries.
“We had almost a full team, bar a couple. Fitness wise isn’t up to where we want to be, but finals experienced showed through.”
Tankard said while they led on the scoreboard in the first half, the Magpies were winning plenty of the ball.
“We started really well and had a little bit of a breeze,” he said.
“We were 20 points up. They had more of the ball, but we were more efficient going forward.
“They came back in the second quarter and it was eight points at half time.”
Tankard said the key in the second half was to win more of the contested ball.
They were able to do that and then get the ball forward.
With Matthew Knox having a day out up forward, it made it hard for Wallan’s defenders.
Having taken control of the game in the third quarter, Tankard said they just needed to hold strong early in the last.
“We led by about seven goals at three quarter time, and we just had to whether the storm for the first 10 minutes.
“We then went away with it.”
Matthew Knox kicked eight goals in a best on ground performance for the Cats.
Zach Smedley was the Cats best midfielder, while Matthew Dick and Tom Waters were outstanding.
Tankard said having more of an even spread was a key to getting the win.
The Cats face Rupertswood this week in a knock out semi final.
Tankard said Aaron Johnston and Erroll McConnell could return from injury if they pass fitness tests.
Rupertswood smashed Macedon in their one match this year, back on Anzac Day.
“They are clearly best side in the home and away season, so we know what we are up against,” he said.
“We have nothing to lose coming from fifth.”
For reports on the other senior finals:
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/riddell-takes-charge/
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/diggers-rest-brings-its-best/
