The Western Jets almost pulled off one of the great upsets of the TAC Cup season against the North Ballarat Rebels on Saturday.
The Jets pushed the ladder-leading Rebels for three quarters before coming up 29 points short in a 10.15 (75) – 6.10 (46) loss.
Despite the tough road trip to Ballarat’s Eureka Stadium, the Jets didn’t look out of place. The Jets made the most of their chances inside the attacking 50, booting two goals straight in the opening quarter to go in level-pegging at the first break.
The Rebels were left to rue a poor kicking display inside their own forward 50, with just one of seven shots on goal converted.
The Jets continued to hang tough in the second term.
But like good sides do, North Ballarat was eventually able to find some of its best football.
The Rebels kicked five goals in the third quarter and were also able to shut down the Jets, who could manage just one answering goal as the margin ballooned out to 41 points.
Although a victory was out of reach, the Jets fought out the match, winning the final quarter by 12 points.
Western Jets coach Torin Baker was rapt with his side’s effort. “In terms of the way we matched them in that first half, I thought our performance was really good,” Baker said.
He said the third quarter was where the game was won.
“It probably started with their clearance dominance,” he said. “Our kicking efficiency dropped off a little bit, as well.
“Apart from that we really matched them for the entire game.
“Considering they are sitting on top of the ladder, it is great to see those improvements in our game.”
Lachlan Knight continued his impressive form for the Jets. The defender has been named among his side’s best players in the past two matches.
“Lachlan has been outstanding for us,” Baker said. “We have played him more off the half backline in the last couple of weeks … he is in great form at the moment. His ability to rebound and intercept mark as well as play really tight footy on his opponent has been excellent.”
Knight was well supported by Jaycob Hickey and Mitchell Norton.
Up forward for the Jets, Brandon Coletta, Mark Galea and Oscar Junker were among the goal scorers.
Saturday’s result leaves the Jets in a battle with the Bendigo Pioneers for the TAC Cup wooden spoon.
The two sides are equal on points with the Jets holding the advantage on percentage.
When round 13 of the TAC Cup season continues this weekend, the Jets will host the Calder Cannons at Burbank Oval on Sunday.
