MATHOURA was living the dream when it qualified for the Picola and District Football League finals last weekend, but it quickly turned into a nightmare elimination final against Rennie on Saturday.
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Within the game's first 15 minutes, the Timbercutters lost coach Darcy Robinson to a shoulder injury and Clint Atkinson to a hamstring injury.
And from there it became an uphill battle as Rennie ran out 55-point winners, off the back of an eight-goal to two second term.
"Our injuries set the tone for the day," Robinson said.
"Footy is a cruel game and it isn't always going to play out the way you want it to. As a young group we probably got caught up in the moment a little bit.
"We tried to keep everything as normal as possible in the lead-up but on the day, nerves probably happened to get the better of us.
"But as we've said all season we are only going to learn from our mistakes."
Despite the season ending in disappointment on Saturday, Robinson said the year was a big step forward for the Timbercutters.
"The club is in a much better position than in previous years," he said.
"Everyone has worked hard to get us out of a dark place both on and off the field. We know there is still a lot of work to do but we're committed to the challenge.
"Speaking to the players after the game, they made it clear we have unfinished business as a group.
"We aren't a club that wants to be making up the numbers in finals."
Robinson and his coaching staff have already cast an eye towards next year, aiming to bring in several recruits to help Mathoura take their next step.
"A ruckman and a centre half back are at the top of our wanted list," Robinson said.
"Having dominant big men makes a massive difference in country footy. We've already re-signed most of the playing group so we're in a strong position.
"If we can add a few more experienced heads as well I think we can make a move up the ladder."
