Ajax ran out easy winners over Hampton Rovers at Albert Park on Saturday, the second loss for the Rovers ahead of the big home clash against Old Brighton.
In cold and windy conditions at Gary Smorgon Oval, the Rovers had setback with Daniel Corp a late withdrawal from the side, along with other forced changes Martyn, Turner, Pinto and Jackson.
Despite kicking against the wind in the first term, the Rovers kicked the opening goal of the match however it was Ajax who kicked the next five to lead by 26 points at quarter time.
Five goals to two in the second reduced the margin to seven points at the main break and the Rovers played some great footy could have had more goals on the board.
The Rovers managed to restrict the home side from scoring until half way through the third, but four goals to none increased their lead to 29 points at the final change and made it tough.
In the final quarter, Hampton kicked a goal within a minute and followed up with another to reduce deficit to 17 points, however the advantage of the wind cruelly died off and it was from that point Ajax took control of the game, booting the next seven consecutive goals.
The Rovers scored a late consolation goal but the damage was done and a 53-point win to Ajax. Nathan Smith was best for the Rovers, also kicking four goals.
HAMPTON ROVERS 1.2 6.4 6.8 9.11 (65)
AJAX 5.4 7.5 11.7 18.10 (118)
Goal Kickers: N. Smith 4, S. Bradford 2, S. Clements 2, M. Short
Best Players: N. Smith, C. Carnovale, R. Atkins, C. Miles, M. Care, F. Garraway-McMaster
