Border Mail |NORTH Albury coach Jason Akermanis does not believe he is showing contempt for the Ovens and Murray league by going on holiday during the season.
Rather the Hoppers mentor believes it will be a "great test" for his finals-bound team to operate without his direct supervision.
North Albury walloped Corowa-Rutherglen by 69 points at Bunton Park on Saturday before Akermanis jetted off yesterday for an overseas break that will see him absent for several weeks.
"They're such a good group right now ... it would be superb to know in four weeks when I come back that there's no issue, everyone's running on the same program," he said.
"I reckon it's a great test.
"It's really what you need to know as a coach."
Akermanis was criticised on Saturday by former O and M general manager Ron Montgomery, who told ABC radio the Brownlow medallist was showing contempt for the competition.
"He obviously doesn't know the first thing about coaching, and if he did he would know you don't have to be there and watching everything," Akermanis said when asked if was being contemptuous.
He said the club knew his plans before the season and he would be monitoring matches through the internet.
Saturday's victory was ensured in the third quarter, with the Hoppers kicking six goals to two to turn a 23-point half-time lead into a 51-point break at the last change.
Roos coach Bryce Campbell was left lamenting his team's lack of pressure, with inside-50s at 6-22 for the term.
He said too many Roos were "jumping off the ship".
Akermanis singled out his young defender Hunter Lloyd for outstanding play.
Ryan Polkinghorne, Lachie Taylor-Nugent and Kris and Nick Holman also played well for the victors.
Corowa-Rutherglen midfielder Sam Carpenter was gallant in defeat, while youngster Harrison Payne kicked three goals in only his fifth O and M senior match.
