Orbost Snowy Rovers produced its best second half of the season to run away from Stratford in round five of the East Gippsland Football Netball League at Lochiel Park last Saturday.
The 49-point victory leaves the Blues third on the ladder with a 3-2 record, while Stratford remains seventh with just one win for the season.
The home side led by four points at quarter time after an energetic opening, though inaccurate kicking cost the Swans the chance to take the lead into the first break.
Following a quarter time address from co-coaches Clancy Bennett and Brett Morrison, Orbost Snowy Rovers lifted its intensity in the second term. Although both sides kicked two goals for the quarter, the momentum had clearly shifted towards the Blues.
The home side then broke the contest open in the second half, kicking seven goals to one as Stratford struggled to keep pace.
Morrison was pleased with the response after a slow opening.
“We were sluggish early, but that second half was our best for the year,” Morrison said.
Tommy Smith was outstanding in attack, thriving in his forward role and finishing with five goals in a near best-on-ground performance.
Jack Herbert was influential around the stoppages, continuing his strong form before an upcoming stint away at the snow.
Curtley Nettleton and Matt Holmes controlled the half back line, while Lachlan Osborn impressed in the ruck against Stratford’s taller opponents.
With Wes Russell and Jordan Ross unavailable, Osborn stepped up strongly for the Blues.
Kieran Vickery was again effective on the wing, consistently finding plenty of the football.
For Stratford, Cooper Dixon, Zak Russell, Ethan Albrecht, Jacob Williams, Dylan O’Shanassy and Hamish MacGregor battled hard, but the Swans were unable to match Orbost Snowy Rovers after half time.
The Blues are well placed heading into the middle stages of the season, with Bryon Vickery, Charlie Mein and Max Welsh expected to strengthen the side later in the year.
Orbost Snowy Rovers now faces a crucial home clash against second-placed Lindenow at Lochiel Park this week, with the result likely to have a significant impact on the top end of the ladder.
The Blues are expected to regain Noah Christy (Maffra), Jamieson Humphries and Max Herbert for the important encounter.
Morrison said his side was aware of Lindenow’s attacking threats but remained confident at home.
“We set ourselves to win our home games. We were filthy after going down to Lucknow in round one,” Morrison said.
“They have been getting goals from Logan Dunkley, Jake Richards and Peter Harrison, while Justin Gould and David Donchi are good players through the middle.
“We are well placed and are expecting to take the game right up to them.”
