It was as if a side consistently putting up Carlton-like margins decided it was entitled to a blowout as a treat.
Kyabram broke free of three inconsistent weeks in one 30-minute sitting, or so it appeared, in the second quarter of Saturday’s thumping Goulburn Valley League win over Shepparton United at Deakin Reserve.
The Bombers clicked in a way that reminded stunned spectators of the side that went toe-to-toe with Echuca for a half in last year’s grand final — arguably the first time Kyabram has looked this threatening since then.
Kyabram delivers the killshot - Q2 v Shepparton United
Scores from turnovers: 6.2 (38) - 1.1 (7)
Forward 50 entry efficiency: 63% - 46%
Contested marks: 8-1
Intercept possessions: 22-15
Tackles inside forward 50: 11-4
Perhaps even more surprising than the categories Kyabram won convincingly in the second term are the ones it lost.
United was still first to the ball at contests more often and notched more clearances with only one fewer rebound 50, yet found itself blown out during this time.
Kyabram “only” won the inside 50 count by six, but eight goals and 11 total scoring shots from 19 entries demonstrates remarkable link-up.
The tackling difference is substantial given the Bombers had almost 30 more disposals; sticking eight more tackles with a bunch more of the ball is rare, but a double-digit figure for tackles inside forward 50 is staggering with that in mind.
Anthony Depasquale and Mick Mattingly were the chief aggressors, bringing three defenders down each inside the arc — more than all but two Demons managed throughout the afternoon.
Duly rewarded for effort, Depasquale got on the end of three of his side’s eight runaway majors to break the game open beyond recognition.
Kaine Herbert’s influence simply could not be quelled in any part of the ground, compiling a stat line most midfielders would be happy to rack up in a half.
Herbert was the everywhere man, clunking six marks on the outside and nabbing two clearances in and under amidst his 13 disposals, capping a spectacular passage with a goal of his own plus two assists.
The question going forward is whether a Kyabram side many suggested would almost rebuild this year after so many key departures can showcase this indomitable side against the upper echelon.
In this sense, Mansfield is the perfect round five opponent this weekend for the Bombers, with the Eagles having put up six straight quarters on nothing but their own terms.