Wimmera-Mail Times | AN IMPRESSIVE defensive performance has delivered Minyip-Murtoa a strong 52-point win against Ararat on Saturday, as the Burras strengthened their position inside the top three of the Wimmera Football League ladder.
The Burras were led superbly by Tom Cooper, who kicked four goals from midfield in a terrific performance.
Brayden Ison snagged three of his own, as usual suspects Kieran Delahunty and Luke Chamberlain were good also.
It was a match-up many thought might be beyond the Burras, especially on the wide-open spaces of Alexandra Oval.
But Minyip-Murtoa never allowed the Rats the time and space they thrive on - the final score of 12.15 (87) to 5.5 (35) was reflective of that.
Burras coach Jaye Macumber said the club had built the match up akin to a final, and was pleased his players delivered.
"I was absolutely rapt," he said.
"I am genuinely rapt with our effort."
Macumber said the majority of the playing group sat down and watched the Rats' round-11 clash against Horsham.
"I think 80 per cent of our players watched that, which was great," he said.
"I think we were really prepared for Saturday's game.
"We knew what we had to do. Our manic pressure had to be at the same level as it was against the Saints a few weeks back.
"We had a plan and all 21 blokes bought into it and stuck to it all day.
“We were hungry for the inside ball and we didn't let it get out to their runners too often.
“We're really lucky to have such a great spread of players who play their roles every week.”
On a day where the Rats failed to step up to the challenge, assistant co-coach Brad Haslet admitted the players were down about the result.
"It was very disappointing," he said.
"They opened us up with their play and the way they moved the ball into space."
Haslet said the stronger bodies of the Burras might have been the difference.
"I'm not making excuses, but we had a lot of lighter bodies out there and that showed up today," he said.
"We got knocked off the ball.
"Our midfielders didn't push back hard enough to help our back line."
The Rats were well served by Justin Summons in the ruck, while Stephen Phillips and Liam Cavanagh held up well under pressure.
Minyip-Murtoa's win was soured by the loss of Clint Midgely to a broken collarbone, and Justin Garth too concussion.
Midgely is expected to miss at least a month, while next week's bye could not have come at a better time for Garth, who should take his place for the split round-13 clash against Horsham in a fortnight.
Ararat also has a bye at the weekend before facing Nhill.