The Tigers took on one of the league’s better sides, Nagambie, at Rushworth Recreation Reserve in round 14 action, but poor goal-kicking proved the home side’s downfall.
The Lakers were slow starters on the road, but unfortunately for the host, it also failed to fire in the opening quarter, and both sides headed into the break with a meagre 1.3 (9) to their names.
To Rushworth’s dismay, Nagambie found its feet in the second and exploded for five majors, the Tigers managing another disappointing 1.4 in response.
Trailing by 22 at the half, Rushworth found itself even further behind after a tight third quarter.
Nagambie kicked three goals to two to stretch its lead beyond 30 heading into the final term.
Rushworth dominated the last and might have walked away with a famous victory had it turned its dominance into goals.
Instead, the Tigers sprayed a scattershot 2.9 at the sticks, returning the margin to the 20s but going down 6.17 (53) to 11.10 (76).
When Rushy did hit the target, Riley Edwards was often involved, leading his side with three majors.
Liam Francis slotted two, while Nico McKinley rounded out the scorers.
Tom Barnes, Will Dalton and Trent Laverie each kicked two for Nagambie.
Tighe Clarke’s efforts earned him best-on-ground honours for Rushworth.
A very crowded mid-table in the KDL has started to separate, and this recent downturn has seen Rushworth booted from the top six.
With just three games remaining, the Tigers (6-7) can’t afford further slip-ups as they look to run down Stanhope (7-6) and restore their finals status.
Rushworth has a favourable draw to close out the season.
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