VFL 2018: Northern Blues withstand Coburg’s fightback to clinch fifth win of season

NORTHERN Blues withstood a second-half fightback from local rival Coburg to claim their fifth win of the VFL season on Saturday.

Alexander Federico of Northern is tackled by Joshua Guthrie of Coburg during VFL footy: Northern Blues v Coburg on Saturday, August 11, 2018, in Epping, Victoria, Australia. Picture: Hamish Blair

NORTHERN Blues withstood a second-half fightback from local rival Coburg to claim their fifth win of the VFL season on Saturday.

The Blues led by as much as 39 points when their skipper Tom Wilson goaled 17 minutes into the third term, before the Lions kicked the next five goals at Preston City Oval.

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A Marcus Lentini major early in the last quarter cut the deficit to 18 points and there was still enough time for Coburg when the on-baller and Josh Guthrie kicked two goals within a minute.

The Lions’ hopes of a memorable comeback win were extinguished when Pat Kerr kicked his first goal with six minutes to play, extending the Blues’ advantage to 15 points.

“It was a game of momentum swings,” Wilson said.

“In the second quarter I think we got out to about five or six goals and then they came back. The deficit at halftime was only a couple of goals.

“It was much the same in the second half. We’d get out to a five or six-goal lead and they’d come back.

“Both teams had their moments.”

Harrison Macreadie marks as Coburg’s Peter McEvoy attempts a late spoil. Picture: Hamish Blair

Wilson had 31 disposals, nine clearances and booted two goals, while in-form midfielder Sam Fisher was best afield with 30 possessions, 14 clearances and two majors.

The ex-Sydney rookie has enjoyed a superb second half of the season as he pushes for a second AFL opportunity.

“In that last quarter he was really important for us,” Wilson said.

Alex Federico tries to break free of a tackle from Coburg’s Josh Guthrie. Picture: Hamish Blair.

The Blues captain praised the development of young ruckman Tom De Koning, while Cam O’Shea’s class in the state league shone through.

“We have got two games to go and we want to make sure we finish off on the right note,” Wilson said.

The match was used as the second trial of proposed AFL rule changes, with a larger goal square and 6-6-6 structure implemented.

Aaron Mullett strides forward in possession for Northern Blues. Picture: Hamish Blair

Wilson said the 6-6-6 model “worked well” and eased congestion, but the longer goal square had minimal impact.

“It was pretty obvious at centre bounces there was a really big gap between the forward line, the midfield and the backline,” the Blues skipper said.