In its first Development League outing for 2016, a gallant Coburg has fallen short by nine points against Werribee at Highate Reserve on Saturday.
Under the guidance of Development Assistant Coach Adam Paterson, deputizing for Marcus Hastings, the Lions held their own throughout the day, however despite a six goal final term, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Tigers, who had several experienced senior footballers fronting up.
Against the wind in the first term, the Lions managed one solidarity goal through New South Welshman Joseph Tegart from a set shot snap in the forward pocket. Midfielders Nathan Thomas and Errol McConnell both making returns from injury were industrious in the midfield throughout the day, as well as Tom McConville, another returning from injury.
The end of a promising first term was soured by injuries. Former Calder Cannon Josh Flower dislocated his shoulder while tackling an opponent while forward Julian Hemala went off with a leg injury. This was later followed by Zak Wunhym going off in the third quarter also with a shoulder injury.
With the wind in the second quarter, the Lions continued to fight hard and saw themselves right in it, being eight points down at the half. Jake Kalanj continued on from his promising end to the 2015 season with two second quarter goals and creating plenty of headaches for the Werribee defence, while Cameron McRorie was also busy up forward having a hand in a few goals. George Romios was industrious in the ruck, despite being undersized.
The third term saw Werribee gain the ascendancy with the wind to gain a comfortable six goal lead going into the final term. At the break, Adam Paterson instructed his players to just play normally and give it their all. All of a sudden, that address sparked Coburg as they managed to reel in the deficit within a goal, with a six goal final term, with Keenan Posar managing three of them. Despite getting within two points, a late goal to the Tigers ended any hope of a comeback.
Coburg will now turn its attention to its Good Friday clash with the Northern Blues, which starts at 10AM at IKON Park.
Final scores: Coburg 11.5.71 Werribee 12.8.80
Goals: Posar 3, Kalanj 2, Bailey, Free, Madden, Tegart, Wunhym, Thomas.
Best: Kalanj, McConnell, Thomas, McConville, Romios, McRorie