by Chris Cavanagh, Leader Group
REIGNING premier Riddell says it will have a better idea of just where it stands in three weeks’ time as it eyes matches against fellow top four contenders Rupertswood and Sunbury Kangaroos.
On top of the ladder with three wins to their name from as many matches in the Riddell District Football League, the Bombers are showing no signs of a premiership hangover in the early stages of the season.
Riddell took down Wallan by a monstrous margin of 122 points in a Good Friday match last week, but president Jason Allen said the side was not getting too ahead of itself just yet.
“So far, so good but we’re coming up against two of the premiership contenders this year in our next two games (Rupertswood and Sunbury Kangaroos),” he said.
“So that will give us a better indication to exactly where we’re at.”
Friday’s three-figure win came after Wallan had been competitive early, the margin standing at just 10 points at quarter-time.
But in front of a strong home crowd in the league’s sole match for the weekend, the Magpies managed just two goals in the final three quarters as they were put in their place by a Riddell side which put on a six-goal second quarter and seven-goal third term to blow the match apart.
The visitors got on top across the ground after quarter-time and had the goalkicking power up forward to get the scoreboard ticking over.
Brian Ruffell finished with seven goals and James Nolan six in the 24.14 (158) to 5.6 (36) triumph.
“Ruff’s back to his career-best form,” Allen said.
“He’s playing with a lot of confidence and he’s kicked goals in every game we’ve played this year.”
Ethan Foreman was named Riddell’s best for his efforts off a half-back flank while brothers Paul and Daniel Sahlberg were others impress for the Bombers.
Keegan Marc and Morgan Smith were the home side’s best on a disappointing day for the Magpies, who had kick-started their season with a 15-point win over Kilmore a fortnight earlier.
The RDFL will hold two Anzac Day matches on Friday, Rockbank hosting Sunbury Kangaroos and Romsey at home to Wallan.
On Saturday Kilmore faces Macedon, Lancefield tackles Diggers Rest, Melton Centrals will meet Broadford and Rupertswood hosts Riddell.
Last Modified on 22/04/2014 07:56