Strong first half sets up development win

Best: Sturgess, Totino, Holdsworth, Williams, Posar, Easton
Goals: Symes 2, Hemala 2, Robinson, Madden, Easton, Holdsworth, Hill, Gleeson, Corigliano, Totino
Despite a late drop off, Coburg’s nine-goal to none first half secured a comfortable 35-point victory over the Scorpions at Casey Fields.
Outstanding performances from tough midfielders Josh Totino and Andrew Sturgess helped the Lions dominate the centre of the ground. Totino finished with a team-high 36 disposals, seven clearances, five inside 50s and goal while Sturgess – in his first game back after a neck injury sustained in a pre-season practice match – impressed with 33 possessions.
Small forward Julian Hemala and ruckman Damon Symes booted two goals apiece but yet again it was Tom Gleeson who got Coburg on to the front foot with an early goal from an intercept mark.
Cameron Holdsworth’s long kick to advantage set up Dion Hill soon after as the visitors took control. The Lions looked to take the game on when rebounding from defence, often opting to switch the ball to the open side of the ground to create fast breaks. Quick ball movement and long kicking wreaked havoc on Casey’s back half. Ricky Schraven was instrumental in setting up goals to Jai Robinson and Hemala before Symes chimed in with two majors in as many minutes to convert the Lions dominance into scoreboard pressure.

In the second term Holdsworth added a well-taken goal to his stellar performance, and, along with Joel Madden and Jordan Easton, extended the Lions’ lead.
A resolute Coburg defence also kept the Scorpions goalless for a half, with Nick Linton’s tackling (8 total) and attack on the ball setting the standard. Keenan Posar (23 possessions) was a composed, influential figure, who constantly provided effective rebound 50s. Coburg’s cleaning up in defence was also much improved.
Casey started well after the main break, booting two quick goals. The Lions were able to respond through Hemala and a terrific individual effort by Jesse Corigliano – who took an intercept mark at full speed and converted from 50 – but it was the Scorpions who had a superior third term. The Lions foot skills and decision-making fell away in the last term but they managed to maintain a solid buffer. Totino pounced on a Casey turnover and finished to ice the game.
Jordy Williams (24 touches) and Brandon Bailey (23) were among the Lions’ other major ball winners.