By Tara Murray
It didn’t matter who Rupertswood played on Saturday, the opponent would have been in for a tough ask in the first quarter of the Riddell District Football League clash.
In fact, the opponent was Diggers Rest.
Couple in Rupo’s good start and the Burras being caught napping, and the game was over at quarter time.
While the Burras were able to bring some respectability to the scoreboard in the second half by restricting Rupo to three goals, it was too late as the home team won by 36 points, 11.15 (81) to 6.9 (45) at Rupertswood Oval.
Rupo coach Ben Jordan said the side was set for a big game.
“The guys played really well in heavy conditions. We had a big build-up and were certainly up for it,” he said.
“The quick start was good in those conditions as once you get a lead it’s hard to make up. We had a lapse in the third quarter when they lifted the intensity.
“We finished positively, but I’d like us to play well for the whole game.”
Jordan attributed the win to his midfield. “Darragh McGovern, Brent Swallow and Shane Bishop were hard around the ground and disciplined by foot. But I thought everyone contributed.”
Leigh Brennan kicked five goals to move to second on the league’s goalkicking list.
The game was soured by injuries to Alec Goodson and Ryan Monzell.
This week Rupo faces Wallan.
Burras coach Shaun Sims said it wouldn’t have mattered who his injury-riddled side had put on the park in the first quarter. “We just got beaten everywhere, especially in the first quarter. They were ready to play and we weren’t. They were more committed at the contest and we copped our right whack.”
“It is an effort-based game and if they bring it and you don’t you’re in trouble.”
Sims said the side was better in the second half.
“It was only a couple of points difference, but we lost it in the first half. We were completely outplayed before having a more competitive second half.
“Jeff Heritage and Lenny Clark tried hard, but there weren’t many positives out of the game.”
He said the side would work on the “psychical stuff” during the week to get the players’ heads back in the game.
This week the Burras face Rockbank.
Lancefield, Romsey and Riddell were among the other winners at the weekend.
