WODONGA coach Ben Hollands says he is at a loss to explain last week’s shock 42-point capitulation against North Albury, but is expecting a savage reaction against Wodonga Raiders today.
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The Bulldogs were stunned by the Hoppers last Saturday, gifting Jason Akermanis and his troops their first win of the season with an insipid performance at John Flower Oval.
Hollands didn’t hold back when assessing the display.
“Last week was a bit of a shock, to be honest,” he said.
“It wasn’t anywhere near the performance we’re accustomed to putting in.
“Sometimes you’re at a bit of a loss to explain those things because they’re so unexpected.
“But I’d like to think it was an aberration.
“We won’t see that sort of performance again this year, hopefully, and certainly not this week.”
The Bulldogs repeatedly turned the ball over last Saturday and were only saved from further humiliation because of North Albury’s inaccuracy in front of goal.
Hollands was almost speechless when asked about Wodonga’s poor use of the ball.
“We did things with the footy that I’ve never seen before,” he said.
“We expect our boys to move the footy in a certain way but we were kicking it to areas and doing things with the ball that was just off the chart.”
But the Bulldogs get a shot at redemption today when they host arch-rival Wodonga Raiders.
Players, officials and supporters from Wodonga’s four premierships in 2004 will be in town as the club hosts a 10-year reunion.
Hollands said it had “definitely” been used as a motivating factor.
“I think the people that played in those premierships and contributed to them deserve that level of respect,” he said.
“For me, personally, it’s a day I’ve been looking forward to for a long time.
“With what’s on the line, with Anzac Day, friends, family and a lot of great people of the club coming back, I’d be expecting a reaction from our boys.
“The boys really want to make amends.”