Eaglehawk overcame a third quarter slump to defeat Kangaroo Flat by 38 points at Canterbury Park.
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The 14.13 (97) to 8.11 (59) victory was the Hawks’ second from as many games this season.
Eaglehawk controlled the game in the first half and led by 28 points before the Roos gave the home side a scare in the third term.
Flat lifted its intensity and a sloppy Eaglehawk turned the ball over.
The Roos kicked five goals for the term to get within 14 points before a late Borough goal steadied the ship.
The Roos had enough of the ball early in the final term, but couldn’t break down the Borough defence. The effort took its toll on the young Roos and the Hawks went on to dominate the final 15 minutes of the game.
“It’s the second week in a row we’ve played a scrappy game, but the good thing is we’ve won both games,’’ Eaglehawk coach Josh Bowe said.
“We’ve got plenty of room for improvement…you’ve just got to win these early games and keep working hard on improving.”
Bowe was one of Eaglehawk’s best players, with his tackling and clearance work a highlight.
Fellow midfielder Jesse Collins was best on ground for the Borough, while Sam Harper relished his role inside forward 50 and kicked four goals.
The Roos showed great commitment to the contest and, particularly in the third term, put the Hawks under pressure.
The major issue for the Roos is they lack the polish with the ball to trouble the best teams over four quarters.
Defenders Tom Holman and Trent McInnes held the Roos together, with McInnes restricting Hawks’ star Matt Gretgrix to two goals.
Co-coach Corey Greer and Jonothan Lanyon battled hard through the middle and across half-forward, while youngster Lloyd Needs showed plenty of dash for the Roos.
Kangaroo Flat has a chance to open its account for 2017 when it hosts Gisborne next Saturday, while Eaglehawk has a blockbuster clash with Strathfieldsaye at Tannery Lane.