The Courier |
Creswick followed its defeat of Daylesford last week with another win against fellow finals hope Ballan.
CRESWICK 17.10 (112)
BALLAN 9.7 (61)
A STUNNING seven-goal third term secured Creswick its second win in a row, thumping fellow finals hope Ballan by 51 points at Ballan on Saturday.
"I keep reflecting on the Carngham-Linton game (a five-point loss) and just how far we've come since then," pleased Creswick coach Len Watson said after the game.
"Our confidence is growing and I'm happy with the way we are going."
Apart from conceding the opening behind, the Wickers had their host's measure all day, extending the lead at every change to gain some valuable percentage as well as a timely four points leading into next week's interleague bye.
"We've got some sore bodies, so the break has come at the right time for us," Watson said.
The Wickers withstood Ballan's best work, as the Blues closed the gap to just five points early in the second term after a terrific mark and goal from Bob Conroy.
Ryan Closter and Ash Mullane prowled the midfield and Ben Fenwick's timely fists in defence kept the Blues well in touch until Creswick's ageless forward, Clint Robinson, slotted the third of his six goals just before the half to give the visitors an even three-goal lead.
"We wore what came in the first half and it was the third term that won us the game," was Watson's post-match appraisal. And what a term it was.
Liam Hepworth got the ball rolling with his second goal from the coach's box pocket and then another followed after he was marched to the goal line from a 50-metre penalty.
Robinson then made it four straight and when Ryan Pompe goaled twice in his return match, the Wickers had blown the game open to lead by eight goals at the last change.
Steve Patterson was a maestro off half-back and the Hepworths, Caleb and Liam, were instrumental for the Wickers as they made it two on the trot.
Ballan's cause would have been more dire if not for three goals apiece from Rod Watts and Anthony Kitchen, along with the tireless ruck work of John Dorning.
