The saying “close but no cigar” is becoming a recurring theme for the Northern Blues this season as once again a winning opportunity slipped from their grasp - this time at the hands of Collingwood. Despite leading by 2 goals at three quarter time, the Blues were unable to maintain the advantage in the final quarter and in the end went down by 7 points.

Pre-game, Northern Blues assistant coach Matthew Capuano touched on the importance of the game to set up the season and string together four consistent quarters of football. Capuano also made mention of the historical aspect attached to the game - the first home game of the season at Preston City Oval - the traditional playing field of the proud club.

The sense of occasion appeared to kick start the Blues into action early as they jumped out of the blocks and slammed home the opening three goals of the game. They were clearly the dominant side through the middle of the ground from the outset.

As the quarter progressed though, Collingwood, through some hard running of their own, had pegged the margin back to three points in what was turning out to be an entertaining contest.

In a half of football in which both teams were evenly match not only on the scoreboard but also out on the ground; the Northern Blues could only manage one goal in the second stanza courtesy of some smart contesting in the goal square by Bret Thornton. In what was a disappointing term for the Blues the run and carry from half-back by both Jordan Russell and Aaron Joseph was encouraging. The duo prevented Collingwood from building a potentially match-winning lead.

A six goal third term by the Northern Blues saw them hit the lead at three quarter time by twelve points. The hard running midfield was carving up Collingwood as they delivered the football inside 50 on 12 more occasions than their opposition and came out on top in the clearances with 10 to 7. Bret Thornton slotted home his third goal for the game, whilst Andrew Collins, David Ellard and Tyson Thomas also put their names in the goals column.

However, the Blues were unable to sustain the momentum in the final quarter as Collingwood piled on five goals to two to run away with their first win of the season and keep the hapless Northern Blues winless in 2012.

Northern Blues 13.13 (91) defeated by Collingwood 15.8 (98)
 
Goals: Thornton 3, Mclean, Soncin, Collins 2, Ellard, Warnock, Thomas and Marcon 1. Best Players: B. McLean, M. Watson, D. Ellard, B. Thornton, A. Marcon, J. Russell

Major ball-winners: Brock McLean continued to stamp his authority in the midfield as he racked up a game-high 38 possessions and two goals. Adam Marcon provided great service for the Blues with 23 possessions, 17 of which came in the first half.

The Northern Blues take to the road in round five as they travel to the Queen Elizabeth Oval where fourth-placed Bendigo will be awaiting them in what is a must-win encounter for the team.