The strength of Lismore/Derrinallum's bigger bodies won through in the clash against the Rhodes Plumbing Great Western Lions in the Mininera Football League on Saturday.
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In the wet and soggy conditions Lismore/Derrinallum's strength and will at the football proved too much for the Lions who lost out in the end by a margin of 35 points.
The first half was a tough contest with both sides struggling to gain the advantage before Lismore/Derrinallum nudged clear in the second half
The Lions were not without their chances, getting plenty of their own ball at the stoppages through ruckman Rayne Salmon and consistent onballer Lachie Malloy, as well as rebounding off the half back line through Tim Shalders, Brett Dowie and Nathan Ringin.
The Lions finished the first half kicking 2.10, having just one less scoring shot in the half, but finding themselves down by 24 points at the main break.
At half time coach Nick Thomas pleaded with his players to talk to each other out on the ground.
He said a lack of communication was causing too many costly turnovers and also attributed it to the main reason for the team's inaccuracy in front of goal.
The Lions continued to battle hard to provide their forwards with opportunities inside forward 50, while Lismore/Derrinallum were never able to put the game beyond the courageous Lions.
However, the Lions never quite managed to wrestle momentum back from their opponents and the costly misses earlier in the game proved to be too much.
With several of Lismore/Derrinallum's experienced players coming to the fore in the final quarter it was then they put the result beyond doubt.
This loss leaves the Lions languishing, now entrenched in the bottom half of the ladder with yet another brave performance and a frustrated Thomas commending his group for their endeavour and commitment to the contest, but reminding them that without the win they could take little from the game.
Tim Shalders, Lachie Malloy, Brett Dowie and Nathan Ringin were all contributors on the day for the Lions as well as midfielder BJ Burton. Danny Grellet had an instant impact on return for the Lions playing a key role in several different positions.
Coach Nick Thomas looked to have finally shaken off some injury concerns to play a key role.