LATE withdrawals of key Wedderburn defenders Danny Benaim and coach Tom Metherell added to fresh challenges for the Redbacks on Saturday.
After the stunning draw against Birchip Watchem the previous round, Wedderburn was tipped to take the points over Nullawil.
That was until the Maroons, in the last season before merging with Wycheproof Narraport, selected Collingwood premiership player and current Bombers assistant coach Travis Cloke in the side.
Cloke had an influence and kicked two goals  but was still finding his way in a new team.
Veteran Redback Adam Postle did the bulk of the work in defence while ruckman Jordy Hargreaves again showed he is Mr Consistent in 2024.
Tommy Campbell, after going goalless against the Bulls, returned to form with his game-predicted five goals.
Wedderburn was one point off the pace at the first break and still in touch at half-time.
Onballers Jackson McEwen and Darcy Jackson and Joe Lockhart in the centre were crucial to the Redbacks’ attack.
The second half, however, saw Nullawil exploit weaknesses in the Redbacks’ structure that had emerged earlier.
Wedderburn was inaccurate with kicks forgot the attributes that had seen it surprise with form this season.
Nullawil ended winning by 28 points. The Maroons have already hinted that Cloke will be back to play three more games in the home and away season and qualify for finals.
In this weekend’s round, Wedderburn is at home against Donald in a match the Redbacks must win.
And Boort will host St Arnaud who won their first game in two years over Charlton last Saturday.