Despite the return of three key players, the Haymes Red Devils, were easily beaten 3-nil by Brunswick City at Trekardo Park on Saturday.

It is the first time in 26 matches the Red Devils have lost two games on the spin.

Ballarat coach Danny Gnjidic conceded it was a sub-par result although the match was closer than the scoreline reflected.

"It wasn't a great performance, but 3-nil was a little harsh on us I think," Gnjidic said.

"Brunswick probably had four efforts on goal and three went in. We dominated possession but never really created anything clear-cut in front of goal.

"The game is all about taking your chances and Brunswick did that and you have to give them credit."

Ballarat was basically back to full strength with only Sam Muscat and sweeper Luke Armstrong missing on Saturday.

But the Reds didn't do the simple things well. First touch on most occasions was too heavy; targets were continually missed and players were second to the ball for much of the day.

Although the Reds controlled the match more than City, it was the visitors' pressure that opened up more chances around the park.

Brunswick scored after only seven minutes when a cross from the left found Ben Stafrace, who shot into the corner of the net between Reds defenders. On 23 minutes City doubled its lead when Gorcevski fired home, Reds keeper

Aaron Romein getting a hand on the ball but unable to stop it from hitting the net.

After the break it was much the same with Brunswick just that step or two quicker to the ball and looking dangerous on the break.

City was happy to sit back and protect the two-goal lead. However, Brunswick put the match to bed on 72 minutes after Aaron Romein was caught in no-man's land and the ball was lobbed for the third goal.

"I read with interest the post-match comments of Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson after his team's defeat on Saturday night. He talked about the heightened expectation in and around that club in recent times and how a young

team deals with that," Gnjidic explained.

"I believe that our club is in a similar situation. We are a young team and the maturity to handle certain situations takes time and experience to develop."