Table toppers remain undefeated

Redan 13.10 (88) defeated by Melton 15.8 (98)

IN a seesawing affair, the Bloods have continued on their winning ways with a ten-point victory over a gallant Redan.

Their ninth consecutive win in the McDonalds Ballarat Football League ensures that the Aaron Tymms-coached Melton remain three games clear from there closet rival in East Point.

The City Oval was bathed in sunshine for the vast of the afternoon with the Bloods almost back to full strength on the return of Mark Orr in ruck and Daniel O’Leary making his much awaited debut.

Only inside midfielder Lachie Watkins was missing due to health and safety protocols.

For the home side it was a different story with Rory Gunsser and Khy Jess unavailable due to GWV Rebels selection, Cooper Craig-Peters a late call up for Footscray in the VFL and prize recruit from the Tiwi Islands, Clayton Tipiloura, out with knee soreness after his sparkling debut the week before.

Melton’s size and strength was always going to be a major factor with Orr and Brett McInytre’s ruck dominance allowing for easy service for the Carter Brothers inside forward 50 with the pair bagging the first three majors of the game.

But as the opening term ticked into time on, it was the Lions who were able to flick the switch with three unanswered goals to close out the quarter, making it a one-point ball game at the first break.

With no Craig-Peters, Lincoln Barnes stepped into the inside and played his best game in Lions colours, setting up some drive from the midfield with captain Lachie George able to put on a typical masterclass.

The veteran was arguably best on ground, with a goal from outside 50 at the 25-minute mark of the second term giving the home side a surprising 17-point lead, only for late back-to-back goals from Melton to close the margin to single digits at the major break.

Trailing for the first time all season at half time, the Bloods were able to answer any questions on how they went under pressure, slamming home six goals to one in the third term to put the game almost beyond reach.

Liam Hoy booted a couple late majors, along with Izaac Grant, to give spectators at the City Oval the grandstand finish.

But Jaycob Hickey, who bagged a lazy three from the midfield, snapped truly in red time to keep his side undefeated in season 2022.