Club development coach, Greg Mellor, provides his exclusive summary of how the Richmond-listed players performed at VFL level with Coburg in last Sunday’s match against Geelong.

Was lively early on, playing through the wing and midfield.  Used the ball well in the very wet, muddy conditions.  Faded out of the game, however, in the second half. 

Finished the match with 24 possessions.  His ball handling was impressive in the conditions, but his execution was below standard.  Has been working really hard on his defensive skills, so it was good to see him have five tackles.

Produced another solid performance.  Had 15 possessions and 31 hit-outs against a quality VFL/AFL ruckman.  Also had three shots for goal, which was pleasing considering the fact he spent more time in the ruck.

Spent time down back and up forward.  Was better in defence.  Picked up 19 possessions and provided strong offensive run.  Played his role and worked hard all game.

His first three quarters were very good.  Showed impressive composure and used the ball well in the conditions.  Has worked very hard on his ground-level game, and his ability to hit through the contest, so it was pleasing to see his improvement in this area. Disappointing, though, to see him fall away in the last quarter.

Was Coburg’s best player, in my opinion.  Made smart decisions and was very efficient with his ball use.  His body positioning continued to improve as they game wore on.  Has returned well from his long-term injury and is close to being ready to play at AFL level.

Took five marks in the tough conditions, which was pleasing to see.  Was clean below his knees and rucked strongly, but his impact throughout the game was inconsistent.  Undoubtedly, this was due to his reduced time in the ruck.

The conditions made it really tough for him to have an influence on the game in his role as a key forward.  His defensive pressure, tackling and willingness to create a contest, however, were outstanding. 

Alternated between key back and key forward and continued to show good signs. His aggression and intensity at the ball and opponent were excellent.  Took a couple of really strong marks, too.  We have been particularly pleased with the progress he has made.

Maintained his recent good form.  Struggled to get into the game early, but finished strongly with 19 possessions, most of them contested.  Has been excellent over the past month, playing of half-back and a wing.

Worked himself into the game after a relatively slow start.  Covered off his opponent well and then offensively impacted on the contest as a key back, finishing with 20 possessions. His composed, effective kicking under pressure, in the conditions, was a highlight.

Returned after a five-week lay-off due to an ankle injury and had a quiet game in terms of possessions.  Played through the midfield and also had stints at half-forward and on the wing in the second half.  Was great to see him have eight tackles and his conditioning will continue to improve with more games under his belt.

Was very strong defensively.  Didn’t have a lot of opportunity to impact offensively, but he set up well in structures and controlled his opponent.  It was especially pleasing seeing him take on greater leadership responsibilities through strong direction and communication.

Coburg 2.3 4.4 5.5 5.5  (35)

Geelong 2.4 2.9 4.12 10.21  (81)

Goals - Coburg:  McGuane, Carnell, Venditti, Graham, Wheeler.

Best - Coburg:  Venditti, Cartelli, Moore, Verrier, Post, Masters.