For the Roosters, it was an all too familiar tale on Sunday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Roosters were far from disgraced, in fact, through certain periods of the game they went toe-to-toe with one of the Victorian Football League’s best sides – Williamstown.
Yet inconsistencies within matches and “horrible” decision-making saw North Ballarat go down 16.22 (118) to 9.8 (62).
The Roosters began strongly, leading for much of the first quarter but trailed by 10 points at the first change – which was a much improved effort from its last hit-out with the Seagulls where it conceded eight first-quarter goals.
However, North Ballarat could not maintain the level to go with Williamstown as the home side broke the game open – particularly with a 5.10 – 1.2 third term.
Coach Marc Greig said he and his coaching staff were disappointed with the result, but also had to keep it in perspective.
It has been a tough season for the winless Roosters, and it will continue to be so, but the fact is North Ballarat is fielding an extremely young outfit and a number of players are getting their first taste of VFL football.
Greig acknowledged that the club would not be using that as a cop out for poor results, but it could not be ignored as a factor and felt he was getting a lot of out the developing the group.
“Last time we played them they came out of the blocks and kicked eight goals to one, it was pleasing to have the opportunity to be ahead (at quarter-time),” Greig said.
“We need our senior guys on top of their games every week and that hasn’t happened either. Those inconsistencies come from every player, not just the young blokes, we need strong leadership for four quarters.
“It is a bit of a mixture as to why we do come out and have a poor quarter here and there...they upped the ante a bit, we dropped off a bit.”
The most disappointing aspect of the game was undoubtedly the poor decision-making which led to unacceptable turnovers – and at VFL level, it more often than not leads to a score.
“While they’re a good team, it wasn’t their pressure that was causing us to turn the ball over it was just us, we were just horrible with decision-making.
“That’s the difference at the minute, it’s not all intensity, or all ability, it’s making the right decision with the ball.”
Mitch Rodd left the ground in the second half with a corky but is expected to be available for selection.
The Roosters return home next Sunday to take on Geelong.