THE Northern Blues went down by 39 points to Richmond at Punt Road yesterday evening.

Despite a strong second term, the Blues were overrun and outgunned by the Tigers outfit, ending 13.15 (93) to 7.12 (54).

After drawing within 13 points at the main break, the Blues were outscored six goals to two in the second half against a Richmond line-up with AFL premiership experience.

The Tigers got the jump on the Blues early, but the good work of Tom De Koning in the air and up forward helped haul Northern back into the contest.

The exciting second-year Blue kicked Northern’s first of the game, taking contested marks around the ground while also spending his fair share of game-time in the ruck.

It was a different Blues outfit in the second term, after Richmond kicked six of the first seven goals of the game.

The contest wasn’t too dissimilar to the AFL season opener which came later that night, building into the game on the back of pressure and fight.

After taking the game to Richmond early in the second half, the home side ran out the game the stronger of the two teams, ultimately prevailing by 39 points.

After shining early in the game, De Koning (three contested marks, 2.2) came from the field late in the third term. The second-year Blue sustained a moderate grade lateral ligament injury, and will get a specialist review early in the week to determine how long he will be out of action.

Further details on his injury will be outlined in the Club’s injury report in Tuesday.

Alongside De Koning, Tom Wilson was once again prolific in his second practice match of the campaign.

The captain collected 21 disposals, five clearances and a final-quarter goal, while he was well-supported by Sam Fisher (16 disposals, nine clearances) and Lochie O’Brien (16 disposals).

Patrick Kerr and Levi Casboult once again rotated between forward and defensive posts, with the former having an encouraging afternoon despite some troubles in front of goal.

Northern will play its final practice match next Saturday, taking on North Melbourne from 10am at RAMS Arena (Craigieburn).

NORTHERN BLUES       1.1      5.7      5.11         7.12 (54)
RICHMOND VFL           6.4      7.8      10.13        13.15 (93)

GOALS
Northern Blues: De Koning 2, Keppel 2, El Moussalli, Wheeler, Wilson

BESTS
Northern Blues: Wilson, De Koning, Wheeler, Fisher, O’Brien