Fightback has Rams on a roll

The Rockingham Rams maintained their standing as the only side still undefeated in the Peel Football League after accounting for Centrals by 15 points on Sunday.

Picture by Steve Powell: Nic Gronenburg, who booted four goals, marks despite close attention from Centrals’ players.

The Mundijong club took a surprise lead into the main break, but were unable to match Rockingham in the second half as the Rams kicked away to a fifth consecutive win, 13.13 (91) to 11.10 (76).

In a see-sawing affair at Mundijong Oval, Rockingham’s eight-point quarter-time lead quickly evaporated on the back of a seven-goal to two second term from the home side.

The Rams hit back in the third term, booting 5.4 to head into the final change with a four-point lead.

With the scene set for a tense finish, Rockingham held sway with several late goals to maintain their four-point lead atop the eight-team competition.

Nic Groeneburg emerged as the Rams’ main avenue to goal with four majors, taking his season tally to 16.

Chris Wrigley (three goals) was also important while Ben Snowdon was best afield.

Daniel Wilson booted four majors in a standout display for Centrals, while Daniel Raffaelli and Grant Dunn were also impressive.

The result maintains Rockingham’s one-game lead over second-placed Waroona, who accounted for South Mandurah by 49 points on Sunday.

Six goals from Falcons spearhead Rod Tregenza was not enough to secure the Mandurah club’s third win of the season, going down 21.15 (131) to 11.16 (82).

Waroona’s Justin Giumelli booted four majors and received valuable support from best-on-ground Ryan McKinley.

Tom McCulloch, Wade Hall and Tregenza toiled hard in a losing cause for Souths.

Baldivis consolidated third spot following a convincing 48-point win over Pinjarra at Sir Ross McLarty Oval.

The Brumbies led at every change, but couldn’t shake a dogged Tigers side until the third term, eventually emerging winners 13.15 (93) to 6.9 (45).

Peter Agostino added five majors to take his season tally to 26, while Luke Robinson (three), James Klause and Danny Watson (two each) were the other multiple goalkickers.

Klause and Robinson were Baldivis’ best, while Daniel Griffin and Josh O’Brien worked hard in a losing cause for Pinjarra.

In the round’s other match, Mandurah inflicted more misery on struggling Halls Head via a 25-point win on Saturday.

Mandurah’s Greg Saunders’ six goals were enough to see him claim best-on-ground honours.

In reserves action, Waroona, Pinjarra, Centrals and Mandurah were all on the winners’ list.

Halls Head emerged victorious in the colts, as did Rockingham, Baldivis and Waroona.