The Standard |WARRNAMBOOL coach Scott Carter says his Blues are eager to respond after their “pride was dented” in their heaviest Hampden league loss in two years.
The Blues are smarting following their 32-point capitulation to a rampaging Port Fairy at Reid Oval on Saturday.
It was their biggest loss since round 10, 2013, when Koroit notched a 34-point victory at Victoria Park.
Warrnambool boasts an imposing recent win-loss record, having won 65 out of its past 78 games since the start of 2012.
Five of those 13 losses were by single-figure margins.
Carter said Warrnambool was determined to bounce back from from its disappointing showing against the Seagulls. The second-placed Blues host fifth-placed Terang Mortlake on Saturday in the penultimate home and away round.
“I hope we respond in a really positive manner and step up,” he said. “Our pride was a bit dented on Saturday.
“Even though the margin was five goals, for three quarters we were completely outplayed.
“Honestly, I didn’t see it coming at quarter-time and there is certainly a bit to learn out of the game.
“When our opponents had the footy we didn’t work hard enough to get it back off them.”
Carter said the Blues had put themselves in a strong position heading into finals and were hungry for success.
Defender James Fary will miss Saturday’s clash after accepting a one-match suspension for striking.
