The Northern Blues were left to rue a slow start and inaccuracy in their last pre-season match, going down by 22 points to Richmond.
As gallant as the Blues were, it was not enough against a dogged, fast-starting Tigers outfit, eventually succumbing to a 14. 10. (94) to 10. 12. (72) defeat.
The Blues were slow to begin early on in the match as Richmond bounced out of the blocks with five unanswered goals in the first 15 minutes.
With the Tigers notching up a 26-point lead at quarter-time, they were effectively able to keep the Blues at arm’s length for the rest of the contest.
Harry McKay (four goals) ensured the Blues were back on track throughout the middle two quarters. However, the Tigers continuously had the answers for the Blues, hitting their opponents on the counter to great effect.
The third quarter saw both teams go to end-to-end on numerous occasions but the Blues were unable to capitalise on the scoreboard, before goals to Tom Williamson and Tom Wilson brought the Blues within 14 points.
2016 draftee Zac Fisher in action for the Northern Blues. (Photo: Tim Murdoch)
However, it was to little avail, with the Tigers responding early in the final term to kick out to a five-goal advantage that was ultimately brought back to the final 22-point margin.
Graham led the way in the midfield with 18 disposals, while he was accompanied well by Rhys Palmer and Tom Wilson who both tried hard all day with 15 disposals each.
Speaking post-game, Graham was buoyant about the Blues heading into the premiership season but lamented the opening minutes of the game.
‘’We’ve really grown as a club this pre season, hopefully we keep building on that and we’ll be in good stead for round 1,” Graham said.
“I think the first 10 minutes really hurt us: if we can get our connection right early on we’ll be alright for round 1.”
The Northern Blues will open the VFL year on Saturday, April 8 in the season opener against Port Melbourne.
RICHMOND 6.2 8.7 12.8 14. 10. (94)
NORTHERN BLUES 1.4 4.5 9.8 10. 12. (72)
GOALS
Northern Blues: McKay 4, Wilson 2, Graham, Jaksch, Kerr, Williamson
