WEDDERBURN’S slow start, compounded by inaccurate kicking for goal, saw the Redbacks fall to a 14-point loss to Calder United at Wycheproof on Saturday.
They trailed by four goals at half-time, having kicked only one major in the first two quarters.
Four goals to three in the third quarter saw Wedderburn creep back into the contest, but 1.7 to 3.2 in the last term proved costly.
Coach Tom Metherell said the final quarter situation was not as clearcut as it seemed, with Calder able to force the Redbacks into kicking for goal from difficult positions. “We were being put under a lot of pressure,” he said.
“Darryl Wilson is a good coach, and he set them up well defensively.”
Metherell said the Redbacks controlled the second half, but every time his side kicked a goal the Lions would respond.
“In the first half our ball movement was a bit scratchy after the week off, and we didn’t adapt well to the smaller ground.”
He said it was an even performance from the playing group, but named Jake Pallpratt across half-back, Jackson McEwen and Jye Mortlock as among the best.
Mortlock and veteran Danny Benaim each kicked two goals for Wedderburn.
Metherell is wary of facing Charlton this week, with the Navy Blues coming off their first win in two years.
“You can’t take any game for granted,” he said.
“All the teams have good players on their list, and you have to be on the ball.”
- GARY WALSH