A slow start hindered the Murray Bushrangers chances against the Greater Western Victoria Rebels on Sunday.
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The Bushrangers went down in the last round of the season by 15-points in wet and and windy conditions at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
While it was the side's first game in three weeks, coach Mark Brown said it didn't excuse the team's lack of effort at contests.
"I thought we looked lethargic and didn't work at the required rate," Brown said.
"They were a bit hungrier than we were and a bit more clean in offence.
"We probably got enough of it in the first half with 16 plus inside 50's, but we just didn't capitalise.
"We weren't at the standard we need to be at from the get go."
Tungamah's Nick Irvine was one of the best for the Bushrangers after battling an interrupted season due to illness.
Cameron McLeod was handy at half back, while fellow Albury product Ben Kelly showed positive signs in his return from injury.
While there were no injuries Dylan Clarke was reported for striking.
The Bushrangers will now play Dandenong in a sudden death game next weekend, with the Stingrays also suffering a loss this weekend.
"Our back half of the season has been really good with great performances, we just need to make sure that continues," Brown said.
"Both sides will want to prove they're better than what they showed today."