Frankston overcame a spirited Northern Blues in the second hit out of the pre-season yesterday afternoon, coming away with a 44 point victory at VisyPark.
The visitors utilised a seven goal to one first term to get the jump on the developing Blues squad, a margin they struggled to reduce until a resolute final quarter fight back.
The only goal of the quarter for Northern came through Dennis Armfield, who was serviced by some great ruck work deep in the forward line by Jarryd Coulson.
But it was of little effect as Frankston used superior ball use to find easy avenues to goal in the first term.
Trailing by 33 points at the first change, a long-range goal from Simon White opened up the second quarter sparking a mini resurgence from the Blues.
Despite being outscored four goals to three in the term, Northern began to look much more potent through the midfield and coming out of defence.
Nick Holman was providing some nice rebound across half back, while Jack Anthony was working gallantly in his first game in Blues colours.
However, Frankston quickly countered goals from Blaine Johnson and Jack Johnston, reducing the momentum Northern carried into the half time interval.
Fresh from the break, Frankston opened up the third quarter with five unanswered goals to put the margin beyond reach.
Looking like the side that began the game so well, the Blues had no answer for Frankston’s relentless forward pressure.
A goal from Nick Graham on the three quarter time siren restored some order for the Blues heading into the last, as they looked to run the game out strongly.
With Frankston starting to look fatigued Northern kicked the opening three goals of the term, again initiated by a White opener.
Rising to the challenge, Frankston answered with three of their in quick succession before the Blues caught fire late in the game.
Piling on five unanswered goals to finish proceedings, Northern returned some respectability to the final score through some great run and carry and execution.
The charge was lead by Graham and Kane Lucas who fought hard in the midfield all day, accumulating plenty of touches.
White and Anthony were also both serviceable at both ends of the ground where they split their time.
Holman was also a shining light for the Blues, showing plenty of poise in the backline.
Speaking with northernbluesfc.com.au after the game, coach Luke Webster said there were plenty of positives to take from the game.
“Across the board I thought a couple of guys contributed really well, Webster said.
“We’re not overly worried about results, we’re just seeing this as an opportunity to understand our list a little bit more.
“It was good to see that the guys finally started to get a few of the structures right and a little bit of ball movement and we started to score a little bit more.
The Northern Blues will host Coburg in an AFL Victoria Development League practice match on Saturday, March 1 at Visy Park.
NORTHERN BLUES 1.4 4.5 5.5 13. 6. (84)
FRANKSTON 7.1 11.5 16.11 19. 14. (128)
GOALS: White 3, Graham 2, Johnson 2, Johnston, Kur, Armfield, Kerrigan, Schleibs-Mullholland, Bowkett
