Coleambally overcame a slow start and an even slower finish at Barellan but did enough either side of half-time to ensure they still hold down second on the ladder.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Blues were almost caught out as Barellan won the first and last quarters but held on for a 28-point win, 15.7 (97) to 10.9 (69).
Coleambally were missing six players including forwards Brandon Mathews and Nathan Jones.
Simon Mackie stepped up with four goals while Graham O’Connell – despite a corked bicep – led the Blues home, kicking three in a best-on-ground performance.
Coach Josh Hamilton believes next week’s bye is coming at the right time for his side but said the absence of key players was no excuse.
“The guys who came in all did their job,” Hamilton said.
“We started ordinary but we got going and at three-quarter time we were looking good to run over the top of them, but we probably got a bit lazy at the end.”
As well as praising O’Connell for his effort “with one-arm”, Hamilton said Mackie’s contribution was important.
“Simon played really well, he took a lot of good marks and kicked some good goals,” Hamilton said.
“Having Kodie (O’Malley) helps there, allowing Simon to play forward and Kodie’s a good defender.”
Mitch Hawker was Barellan’s best along with Joel Hourigan (four goals).
A scoreless second quarter cruelled Barellan’s chances – while Coleambally kicked three straight goals – but the Two Blues finished strongly with eight goals in the second half and the last four of the game.