Following six quarters of disappointing footy, Kyabram coach Paul Newman hoped for a response.
That is exactly what the Bombers mentor got on Saturday as his outfit ran riot at home to claim a convincing and comfortable 66-point win against Tatura.
Kyabram was back to its damaging best in the round 15 clash.
Quality team defensive pressure, led by defensive general Jason Morgan (19 disposals and nine marks), was turned into ample scoring opportunities for a potent forward line spearheaded on Saturday by experienced and talented club greats Brad Mangan (five goals) and Kayne Pettifer (four).
“The last six quarters before the weekend had been really disappointing so it was important for us to get some confidence back and get back to playing good footy,” Newman said.
“Our team defence was terrific.
“I think all seven goals in that first quarter were created from turnover.
“We were really hot with our defence in the first quarter and we closed down Tat’s options.”
Newman was impressed with his side’s leading onballers.
Without VFL star Will Golds, who missed due to a corked hip, premiership player Liam Ogden (29 disposals at 93 per cent disposal efficiency) and class midfielder Kaine Herbert (29 touches, seven inside 50s) stood up with eye-catching performances.
“Those two boys were both super,” Newman said.
“Liam’s been coming into some good form the last month, whereas Herb’s probably been a bit quiet and it was good to see him get back to that form we know he can produce. (Kaine) is enormous for us and he was great on Saturday.”
Tatura defender Michael Archer battled hard in game 50 for the club and was one of his side’s better performers, along with running defender Che Walls and youngster Brayden Hall.