The Werribee Tigers chalked up their first win of the season with a 28-point defeat of Geelong in windy conditions at Skilled Stadium last Sunday as Ben Carbonaro reports.
The Tigers experienced a last quarter fade out last week and wanted to avoid that against a Geelong team keen to improve on a dismal 2010 season.
It was a scrappy first quarter as both teams struggled with the strong wind. Werribee struggled to move the ball forward cleanly and consequently sprayed shots on goal. Despite this the Tigers led by 10 points at quarter time but it was a disappointing 2.6 score line.
Werribee’s impressive defensive performance, plus some good tackling and pressure around the ground, made it tough for Geelong to get its game going. The Tigers played a much improved brand of football with their run and carry through the middle and delivery to the forward line impressive. It was 31 points the difference in favour of the visitors at the main break.
The Tigers continued playing aggressive and attacking football in the third quarter but poor kicking kept the Cats in with a chance. It set up what was to be an interesting final quarter.
Despite Geelong kicking a number of late goals, the Tigers were superb and their tacking in particular was impressive with Will Martinello accumulating 10 for the match.
Werribee coach Paul Satterley was pleased to get a first up win in a game that was played in frustrating conditions.
“Our work around the footy was good, our clearances were good and our defenders were good, not (being able to build) the scoreboard pressure was a bit frustrating but it was good to get the four points.”
North Melbourne’s Jamie MacMillan played four AFL games last year and his best on ground performance, playing in defence, means he is not far from adding to that total. The 19-year old finished with 26 disposals and 7 marks.
Werribee’s defensive unit led by MacMillan impressed Paul Satterley.
“I thought our back six today were probably the standouts (with) their ability to negate their opponents and (their) composure was much better, it was great,” he said.
Seasoned VFL player and now Kangaroos rookie Cam Pedersen again proved his versatility, starting in the backline before providing another forward target for the Tigers.
Former Essendon listed forward Michael Still and North Melbourne listed forward Ben McKinley both kicked two goals, heading the goal kickers for the Tigers.
First-year player Jordan Schroder was best for the Cats as he provided some nice run through the middle and kicked two goals.
The Tigers make their first television appearance of season 2011 when they face Collingwood at Victoria Park, with the first bounce scheduled for 1:10pm. Werribee’s reserves face Frankston in the curtain-raiser at the same venue.
In other news, the Werribee reserves are undefeated after backing up from last week’s season opener with another strong performance against Northern Bullants 13.16.94 to 7.12.54
Former Western Jet Sean Tighe was outstanding playing in the ruck and was named best on ground for his efforts, while Tigers spearhead Jase Perkins booted four goals.
Werribee Tigers 2 6 6 11 7 17 9 20 74
Geelong 1 2 2 4 4 5 6 10 46
Last Modified on 12/04/2011 10:25