Football
5 August, 2026
Thunder finals hopes tested by heavy loss
Inspired by a 10-goal haul by coach Tom Williamson, Ararat recorded a resounding victory over Southern Mallee on Saturday.
While Ararat coaching director Corey Taylor was elated after the win, it was like chalk and cheese when chatting with Thunder's coaching director, Jake Bridges, who was disappointed.
"It was a really disappointing day for us on a number of levels," Bridges said.
"Credit to Ararat, they were able to capitalise on our mistakes and made us pay.
"I'll review my performance also as a coach and I've already received some feedback on where I need to get better."
With a couple of goals in both the first and second quarters and one in the third, Williamson saved his best until last, booting five majors in the final quarter as Ararat won 23.17 (155) to 6.13 (49).
Ben Taylor and Naish McRoberts were best on ground for the Rats, while Angus McSweyn and Harry McLeod were the better players for the losing side and Bailey Edwards contributed three goals.
Bridges said they would review the game honestly and learn from their performance.
"We'll use it as an opportunity to improve," he said.
"Our focus now shifts to responding the right way next week and putting in the performance we know we’re capable of."
With the win, Ararat move into first position on the ladder, on equal points with Horsham Saints but with a greater percentage of 186.23 compared to 152.14.
The Thunder are fifth, with a record of 8-6.
Awaiting the Thunder this Saturday are the Eagles in what will be a must-win.
A win to Bridges' side will end the dream of finals for Warrack and lock in their own finals involvement, but a loss will put the Thunder at risk of losing their finals position, depending on other results in the last couple of weeks of the season.