Coburg coach Tim Clarke provides his exclusive summary of how the Richmond-listed players performed at VFL level in last Sunday’s loss to Port Melbourne.

Ben Darrou

Had a difficult defensive job on Adrian Bonnadio, one of the VFL’s best forwards.  Was beaten a couple of times on the lead early, but fought his way back, finishing the game well.

Matt Dea

Played a really good game for someone, who had five goals kicked on him.   When our midfield pressure was poor, Port was able to isolate his dangerous opponent, Dean Galea.  His defensive positioning was good, however Galea was simply too strong for him.  Still managed to have 26 disposals and provide us with plenty of run, which was pleasing.

Tom Derickx

Battled well in the ruck.  Again was consistent with winning hit-outs, and he took a few good grabs around the ground, but he allowed Port’s ruckmen to have too much offensive involvement.  Overall, however, he finished the season well over the last month.

Todd Elton

Provided us with a good option up forward.  Improved as the game went on, kicking two goals in the third quarter.  Still needs to make most of his opportunities, to have a breakout game.

Ben Griffiths

Was very lively early, but he struggled to hold his marks.  That prevented him from having a significant impact until late in the third term, when he started to find his way back into the game, providing some good contests.

Sam Lonergan

One of our better players on the day, picking up 28 disposals, including nine clearances, in his midfield role.  Had an even mix of contested and uncontested ball again, which has been a focus of the past few weeks for him.  Is ready to go at AFL level if needed.

Matt McDonogh

Played another good game through the midfield and up forward, finishing with 28 touches, including nine clearances.   Used the ball very well, setting up a couple of goals.  Defensive awareness is an area of the game he needs to work on.  Also is pushing for AFL selection.

Robin Nahas

Played another really good game, alternating between half-back and half-forward.  Helping bring teammates into the game has been a real strength of his for the past six weeks.  Is in good form, if needed at AFL level.

Orren Stephenson

Really influential with his ruckwork, as well as around the ground.  Was elite with his run-and-carry and offensive involvement.

Steve Verrier

Performed a very good defensive role on Chris Cain, who is one of the competition’s elite midfielders.  Cain had no impact on game, while Verrier managed to pick up 17 disposals himself and contribute to the team offensively.  Excellent finish to the season from him.
 

Match details

Coburg                 2.3          4.5          9.8          10.13  (73)                                                                                       
Port                       3.3          7.7          9.9          15.11  (101)                                      

Goals – Coburg:  Elton 2, Carnell 2, Maric 2, Stephenson, Ulysal, Saad, Griffiths.
Best – Coburg:  Lonergan, McDonough, Verrier, Nahas, Darrou, Robertella.