Development coach, David Newett, provides a summary of how the Richmond-listed players performed at AFL level with Coburg in last Sunday’s big win against the Bendigo Bombers.
Ben Nason
Was inconsistent in the first half, but finished the game off well. Broke the lines, took the ball inside 50 several times, and was efficient with his ball use when involved in scoring chains.
Angus Graham
Again was the dominant ruckman on the ground, winning 40 hit-outs. Constantly gave the team’s midfielders first use of the ball in the tough, slippery conditions. Provided a contest on occasions around the ground, and his tackling pressure increased after half-time, to help shut the opposition out of the game.
Shane Tuck
Another very solid performance in the midfield, with his stoppage work a crucial factor in Coburg’s win. The experienced midfielder continues to play consistent football and display fine leadership for the young Tigers.
Mitch Morton
Played in the midfield and was involved consistently across the game. Accumulated possessions in the defensive half and also regularly took the ball inside 50 to create scoring opportunities in an all-round impressive performance.
Ben Jakobi
The young rebounding defender backed up his previous game at senior VFL level with another solid effort. Again showed good signs with his intensity around the ball, ability to read the play, and his disposal in the trying conditions.
Brad Miller
Put all his football experience to good use in his first game for Coburg. Provided a key target up forward throughout, contested strongly to bring teammates into the game, took seven marks in the tough conditions, and finished with two goals in an influential display.
Jamie O’Reilly
A solid game in defence. Restricted opponents’ impact and also provided good rebound for the team. Is learning and developing into his role extremely well, while still managing to be a valuable contributor at the same time.
Jeromey Webberley
Returned from a stint with the Richmond side and was a major contributor in the Coburg win. Worked hard to link up play offensively and tackled strongly from a defensive perspective.
David Gourdis
Did an excellent job in keeping Bendigo’s dangerous forward Matt Little goalless. His spoiling and general defensive game was strong and he rebounded well offensively to cap off a fine performance.
Mitch Farmer
Displayed good defensive traits in his return to the Coburg side. Repelled many Bendigo attacks and also rebounded well of half-back.
Dean MacDonald
Returned to the senior Coburg side and looked comfortable in his familiar role up forward. Displayed good intensity, applied forward-line pressure, and kicked a valuable goal. An impressive effort from the young forward, who is improving each week.
Robbie Hicks (Coburg reserves)
Acquitted himself well in a midfield role. Was particularly damaging with his ability to break the lines with run-and-carry.
Pat Contin (Coburg reserves)
Returned from injury and performed impressively in the midfield, racking up 29 possessions. Used the ball well in the difficult conditions and maintained a strong work-rate throughout the game.
Match details (VFL seniors)
Coburg 4.1 7.3 8.11 11.13 (79)
Bendigo 1.2 1.7 1.9 1.9 (15)
Goals - Coburg: Miller 2, Cartelli 2, Tuck, MacDonald, Rayson, Clifton, McErlain, Webberley, O’Reilly.
Best - Coburg: Tanner, Morton, Gourdis, Power, Farmer, Tuck.
