A pressure-easing win for The Rock-Yerong Creek has done the exact opposite for their rivals, East Wagga-Kooringal, as the defending premiers suffered a third straight loss for the first time under coach Gavin McMahon, with unbeaten Marrar to come next week.
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Not even the shock return of key forward Billy Mearns could change the Hawks’ fortunes, as the Pies were too good at home, running out winners, 13.5 (83) to 9.9 (63).
After four rounds, EWK are languishing in eighth place, on just one win. TRYC are only one spot above them on the ladder, but are one of four sides now on eight points.
“Everyone’s happy, we’re just pleased to get the win,” a relieved coach, Tom Yates said.
“It would’ve made it a bit hard if we went three (losses) on the trot. It’s good for all the people around the club.”
The teams were evenly matched early before the Pies got out to a two-goal lead at quarter-time, a buffer they were able to maintain throughout.
After being run off their feet in the opening quarter at North Wagga last week, Yates said the first quarter was crucial.
“The start was always going to be important – both sides knew they had to get off to a good start because it was going to be pretty even all over the field,” he said.
“I was really happy with how the boys were switched on, I couldn’t have asked for more from them.”
The Pies made a couple of positional changes, and Yates praised the pressure Aaron Meyers brought in his first senior game of the year (replacing Andrew Saddler who failed to overcome an ankle concern).
Scott Wolter was sent forward and was one of three players (along with Luke Webb and Todd Hannam) to kick two goals in a forward set-up which welcomed back Dale Hugo.
And Daniel Steele played a crucial role in the midfield.
“Young Steeley was given a job on Brocke Argus,” Yates said.
“He’s been going well, Brocke has, so we thought if we could shut him down it’d help.”
Yates was also happy with the way their forward line functioned as the game went on. And straight kicking helped, given both sides had 18 scoring shots.
Chris Jackson’s strong start to the year with EWK continued. He kicked three goals, while Mearns and Nick Hull also gave the Hawks options. But across their four games this year, they’re averaging less than 60 points in attack.
Yates was just happy to get the four points and expects it’s only a matter of time before the Hawks click in an extremely tight competition.
“They’re still a very good side, East Wagga, and you can’t take anyone lightly this year,” he said. “It’s anyone’s day, if they’re on.”
That will put to the test again next week when TRYC host Temora.
