Matthew Kreuzer stars as Northern Blues hold off fast-finishing Geelong to open VFL account

Matthew Kreuzer proved he’s ready for an AFL return but Alex Fasolo is set for a stint on the sidelines after Northern Blues held on for a thrilling VFL win over Geelong at GMHBA Stadium.

Matthew Kreuzer in action for Carlton. Picture: Michael Klein

Northern Blues have produced the first shock upset of the VFL season, claiming a thrilling one-point win over Geelong at GMHBA Stadium on Sunday.

The Cats stormed home in the final quarter but couldn’t find the winning goal in a nail-biting finish, leaving last year’s semi-finalists winless in the opening fortnight.

After a bye in Round 1, the 10.8 (68) to 9.13 (67) win marked the perfect start to the Blues’ season as they chase a finals berth for the first time since 2011.

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Holding a 15-point lead at the final break, the Blues held on desperately with coach Josh Fraser proud of his team’s composure under pressure.

“I was really proud, they showed a lot of guts to hold on,” he said.

“We lost Alex Fasolo in the first quarter and Darcy Lang was allocated half a game, so after half-time we lost him.

Matthew Kreuzer in action for Carlton last year.

Alex Fasolo only lasted one quarter. Picture: Sarah Matray

“I thought they showed a lot of spirit and fight. We’re really pleased with the win, but when you look at it through a coach’s lens you’ve still got so much to work on.

“We’re far from a finished product — we’ve still got a lot to work on — but to get a win in Round 1 is really nice. It hasn’t happened in four years.”

Carlton ruckman Matthew Kreuzer was critical in the win as he gains match fitness ahead of his AFL return, while Jack Silvagni was dangerous up forward with three goals.

Captain Tom Wilson was prolific with 29 disposals as AFL-listed defender Hugh Goddard stood tall in defence.

“It speaks to (Kreuzer’s) professionalism, being able to come in and play the way he did,” Fraser said.

Tom Wilson leads Northern Blues out last year. Picture: Tim Murdoch

“He performed at a really high level but also his leadership and the way he was with the playing group set the standard for any AFL-listed player coming back to the VFL.

“We thought Willo’s game from a leadership standpoint was really strong. He’s a consistent performer in terms of his numbers but he showed good leadership, particularly late in the game.

“We’ve been really impressed with Hugh. His attitude and character shines through. His leadership on field was outstanding and he had a really tough job but was able to compete really well and took the points on the day.”

The Blues face a short turnaround ahead of their next clash against Collingwood on Saturday at Victoria Park.

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