The Werribee Tigers enjoyed a 37-point win over Geelong under lights at Avalon Airport Oval last Friday night as Ben Carbonaro reports.
Werribee were coming off a win in the Foxtel Cup against the Burnie Dockers but had lost their last VFL encounter to Box Hill. It was a different story for the Cats, who headed into this game undefeated.
Starting games slowly has been an issue for the Tigers in previous games, but a strong seven goal to one quarter was evidence that the boys were up and about. Werribee’s ball use through the corridor was excellent while Geelong made numerous attempts to get it moving quickly to no avail. Inaccuracy in front of goal also cost Geelong with the home side leading by 33 at quarter time.
The Cats were a different side after quarter time as they kicked four goals to two and their ball use around the ground was more fluid. They were able to break through the strangle hold of Werribee’s defence and consistently hit forward targets Despite winning the quarter on the ground, they still trailed by 23 points at the main break.
Geelong continued to win more of the ball around the ground and won the quarter kicking five goals to four. Werribee led by 15 points at the final break.
The Tigers attacking style of football returned for the final quarter and four goals late in the quarter sealed the win for Werribee.
Tigers coach Scott West was happy to rebound with a win and his team’s start pleased him.
“The first quarter was our best, not for the fact that we kicked all the goals but our pressure around the footy and we played a high percentage of game time inside our forward 50 was impressive. We were fortunate tonight that they challenged us, but we were able to hold them off, and go on with it.”
Sam Gibson (40 disposals & 3 goals) was awarded the Damian Drum Medal for his outstanding game in the midfield.
West had nothing but praise for the North Melbourne rookie.
“Gibbo was outstanding tonight and as midfielder you couldn’t ask for a better game.
His ability to pressure around the stoppage and create turnovers makes him a really valuable player.”
New recruit Jack Purton-Smith and Robbie Tarrant also kicked three goals for the Tigers.
Ben Ross continued his good form while Ben Sharp was also in the best for his aggressive attack on the football.
Mitch Brown continued the road back from injury as he booted three goals and Rob Condy was best for the Cats.
Next for the Tigers is the Western Derby clash when they host Williamstown next Sunday, whilst Geelong meet Bendigo this Friday night.
Photo: Arj Giese
Last Modified on 24/04/2012 22:07