Rams rue poor half

A disappointing second half against the Mundijong Centrals resulted in a 65-point loss for the Rockingham Rams, their fifth consecutive defeat.

Playing away from home on a smaller ground, the Rams had no answer to the relentless pressure of the Centrals, going down 17.13 (115) to 8.2 (50) in round 8 of the Alcoa Peel Football League.

The home side dominated the first 10 minutes of the clash, but failed to put the results on the scoreboard, splitting the big sticks just once in their first six shots on goal.

The Rams steadied the ship with a long goal to Matthew Rimmer followed by another to Matthew Coy, who marked and kicked truly from 40m.

Two crucial Rams turnovers resulted in goals to the Centrals who went into quarter-time with a 10-point lead.

Unfortunately, the Rams wouldn’t get any closer than that for the rest of the game as the bigger-bodied Centrals asserted their authority with a physical approach.

The Rams’ scoreless third term and just four second-half shots on goal proved to be the deciding factors.

Turnovers, poor disposal and poor discipline were the lowlights on a day the team conceded seven goals through free kicks or turnovers.

On the bright side, the club has been blooding many players still eligible for their top-of-the-table under-20 colts side, which should put the proud Rockingham side in good stead for the future.

Jayden Treadwell and Jake Tonkin stepped up into the league side for the Centrals match.

Better players for the Rams on the day included Andrew Walsh, Michael Coy, Rocky Collins and Matthew Rimmer. Daniel Taylor again toiled hard in the ruck, winning many hitouts and won his duel with Matthew Wray.

Next week the Rams take on Halls Head Lightning at Harcourts Mandurah Stadium.

The reserves’ winless season continued with a 18.13 (121) to 5.1 (31) loss to Mundijong, while the colts recorded a 15.12 (102) to 3.6 (24) victory.