Cobras outlast Lakers on the road

Bacchus Marsh overcame a genuine scare on the road against a very combative Lake Wendouree to win by seven points, a first for new season coach Dennis Armfield in charge of the red, yellow and black.

Despite heading into the game as favourites, the visiting Cobras found themselves behind at the main break on the back of a wasteful opening term (2.8).

With the door of opportunity left ajar, the hosts pounced and were rewarded for their accuracy (7.1) with the advantage, earning Rohan Brown’s young group an eight point lead.

Both sides struggled for any periods of momentum in the second half, as the degree of difficulty to get the ball on the outside and into clear air fell into the ‘easier said than done’ basket.

A spike in ground ball pressure led to more stoppages, raising the value on any goal to premium status. Eventually it would be the Cobras who would correct their errant ways on, and defending goal, outscoring a gallant Lakers outfit six goals to three in the second half.

Cobras veteran Tyson Shea was judged best player on the ground by many, while Lakers defender Brayden Helyar was recognised for his efforts on key target Jake Owen (three goals).

While Lakers pair Timmy Collins and Bailey Thompson finished with a game high four goals, it was the spread of Cobras contributors that would prove the difference in this see-sawing affair.

Jack Parente and Jack Kovacevic continued with their bright starts to the season with their distribution and rebound.

There was plenty to like about coach Armfield’s playing performance too. The former Carlton AFL 150+ gamers attack on the footy and forward pressure was duly noted, as the Lakers struggled for any clean break aways – a real lead by action example in this area from the new man at the helm.

Ethan McKercher looked busy, as did Ashton Craig, who finished two goals – one came on the back of a telling mark to put the Cobras in front midway through the last quarter.

Some timely confidence for Craig ahead of the clubs biggest home and away stage – an Anzac Day (weekend) showdown with the Devils at Darley Park on Saturday.

Both sides are 1-1, with plenty to play for.

Can’t wait!

How the coaches rated their performance Overall – Armfield (B/Marsh): We came out with a real positive attack on the ball but couldn’t finish off our work early. The Lakers were very accurate and able to wrestle back momentum. We were able to fight back and slow their ball movement and we started to win some more 1v1s. Lakers were very impressive and lively all day, and we’re very happy to come away with a hard fought four (premiership) points.

Brown (Lakers): Whilst always disappointing to lose, I’m very proud of the way the boys competed. Great game of footy to be apart of – Bacchus Marsh handled the big moments better.

Defence – Armfield (B/Marsh): Once adjusted to the wind and conditions our backs held strong and controlled their opposition. They just kicked straight.

Mids – Armfield (B/Marsh): Lifted when required. Built connection with one another and limited Lakers efforts.

Forwards – Armfield (B/Marsh): Missed their opportunities early and probably. Once we rewarded each other and excited our roles, we were able to kick goals.

Final scores: Bacchus Marsh 2.8-20, 5.11-41, 8.13-61, 11.16-82 def Lake Wendouree 1.0-6, 8.1-49, 9.3-57, 11.9-75. B/Marsh (Best): T.Shea, J.Parente, A.Craig, J.Kovacevic, D.Armfield, E.McKercher.

B/Marsh (Goals): J.Owen 3, A.Craig 2, J.Parente, I.Nixon, E.McKercher, C.Salmon, D.Armfield, J.Hehir.

Lakers (Best): B.Helyar, N.Pring, T.Collins, F.Fogarty, W.Clark, L.Koliba.

Lakers (Goals): B.Thompson 4, T.Collins 4, F.Fogarty, J.Jarred, H.Hicks.