The Coburg Tigers kicked off the 2010 VFL season with a narrow 10-point loss to reigning premier North Ballarat yesterday.
After leading by 28 points at half time, the Tigers went goalless in the third quarter, fought hard in the final term but fell just short of victory.
There were plenty of positives among the Richmond-listed players in action for Coburg, including Graham Polak booting two goals and providing a strong target, and Andrew Collins, Troy Taylor and David Astbury also finding the scoresheet.
Matt Dea was among the Tigers’ best for his defensive effort on dangerous North Ballarat forward Corey Jones, while David Gourdis cut off several attacks deep in the back half.
Troy Taylor and Tom Hislop also showed glimpses of their talent throughout the afternoon.
Coburg coach David Newett was disappointed his troops could not secure the four points, but was thrilled with their output.
“I couldn’t fault any of the performances of my players. They battled hard all day against a quality opposition and just fell short,” he said.
“We missed a lot of chances, especially in the last quarter, and on another day we could have snatched the win.”
“There are plenty of positives to take out of the game, and we can improve in a lot of areas.”
Coburg goes on the road this week to play Frankston on Sunday April 18.
Final scores
Coburg Tigers: 6.1, 8.4, 8.7, 11.9. (75)
North Ballarat: 3.2, 3.6, 9.10, 12.13. (85)
Goals: Dennis 2, Carnell 2, Polak 2, Collins, Taylor, Piuselli, Lucin, Astbury
Best: Clifton, Dea, Kahlefeldt, Hislop
Richmond members and registered fans can access an exclusive Richmond-listed player-by-player analysis from Coburg coach David Newett every Wednesday afternoon on the richmondfc.com.au Eye of the Tiger page.
To access Eye of the Tiger, become a registered Tiger fan by clicking here.
The login details are included in Richmond’s official E-newsletter, the Jungle Beat.
