A SEVEN-goal second quarter proved telling in Murray Bushrangers’ 26-point win over Northern Knights at Craigieburn on Sunday.
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In a 21-minute burst, the Bushrangers blew the match open to consolidate their spot in the top four.
Coach Leon Higgins said the purple patch was as good as the side had played this season.
“We had a very strong second quarter,” Higgins said.
“It was really pleasing.
“We got on top in the clearances and it reflected on the scoreboard.
“That’s probably as well as we have played.”
Midfielders Angus Hicks and Harry Jones were dominant for the Bushrangers while Ben Paton and Jacob Koschitzke led a tight defence.
Big Daniel Johnston returned to form in attack with two goals and some big tackles.
Jordon Butts troubled the Knights’ defence with two majors, particularly early.
While Higgins was pleased with the win, he pinpointed several areas for improvement including a 0.9 final quarter.
“I think it was mostly our poor kicking for goal,” he said.
“It’s an area we need to work on.
“We had a good lead but didn’t finish off some of our work.”
The Knights held their own in the first, third and final quarters with Max Dreher’s dash from defence causing some concern.
The Bushrangers will play their first home match of the season against Western Jets at Wangaratta’s Norm Minns Oval at 1pm on Saturday.
“It will be good to get back home for a game,” he said.
“We got through without any injuries which is always good.”
In other matches over the weekend, Geelong Falcons strengthened their spot on top of the ladder by defeating Eastern Ranges by 52 points.
Oakleigh Chargers were comfortable winners against Bendigo Pioneers, Sandringham Dragons defeated Dandenong Stingrays by 21 points and Western Jets stayed in touch with the top six by edging out Gippsland by four points.
Greater Western Victoria Rebels opened their account by defeating a struggling Calder Cannons.
The ladder after four rounds is:
Geelong Falcons 16, Sandringham Dragons 16, Murray Bushrangers 14, Oakleigh Chargers 12, Northern Knights 10, Western Jets 8, Dandenong Stingrays 8, Gippsland Power 4, Eastern Ranges 4, Bendigo Pioneers 4, Greater Western Victoria Rebels 4, Calder Cannons 0.