By Mark Murray
WESTERN Jets regional manager Shane Sexton believes the Jets’ premiership ambitions went down hill the moment they missed a top four finish.
The Jets missed out on the double chance by percentage, an advantage critical towards a flag assault, according to Sexton.
The Western Jets were bundled out of the finals race in the first week by North Ballarat.
Sexton said the early exit was disappointing, considering the quality of the 2007 team.
“There is no two ways about it, the double chance is very important,” Sexton said.
“We set ourselves to get it and to miss it by percentage was really disappointing.
“But we played last week and had our chances but we blew it.
“We thought we could win the game but we didn’t so that’s that.”
Sexton identified Murray Bushrangers and Northern Knights as likely grand finalists.
The Bushrangers have won their last 10 matches while the Knights have enjoyed the week off and will meet the Calder Cannons in the preliminary final on Saturday.
“The sides that finished one, two, three and four are all going to give themselves a big chance,” Sexton said.
“I wouldn’t rule anything out or anything in there, but having the week off Northern and Murray are in a great position and are already through to preliminary finals.
“Their players have not been in a position to get injured and they have freshened up a bit, so I can see Northern and Murray going into the grand final.”
The Jets unearthed some prodigious talent this season.
Mitchell Banner was a star and will attract plenty of attention from AFL clubs.
“The kids have been really good,” Sexton said.
“We haven’t had a group in my time that have worked as hard as this so we can’t complain about a lack of effort.
“There have been eight to 10 kids in particular who have been outstanding.
“Their preparation, application and work ethic on and off the ground has been sensational and they can be very proud of their efforts.”
“Half the kids will be coming back as they always do and we’ll go out and find another group of 16-year-olds who will step up and become bottom ages next year.
“All the TAC Cup clubs are the same and go through virtually the same process.”
