Utility Scott Carlin gathered 22 disposals and key forward Lachie Wareham booted two goals on debut in the Rebels’ humbling 20.9 (129) to 5.17 (47) loss to Geelong Falcons at Simonds Stadium on Saturday.

Rebels coach Gerard FitzGerald said his side dropped away after being within three points at the 18-minute mark of the second term.

The Rebels were outscored 12 goals to one after the main break.

“My philosophy will always be ‘what did we do well to that stage?’,” he said.

“For half a game we matched a good side. That doesn’t excuse getting beaten by 70-odd points but it does suggest we could be competitive.

“We had only five shots less at goals and that’s a reminder to players to take chances.

“We missed some very, very easy goals and you let teams off the hook.” 

The Rebels host Bendigo Pioneers in Ballarat on Sunday.