Well over three and a half thousand spectators witnessed the 2014 West Division premiers Cora Lynn defeat arch rivals Nar Nar Goon by 27 points in the opening match of the 2015 season at the Cobradome on Saturday night. The tackling, chasing and harassing was a feature of the game especially by the home side in the third quarter when it turned a 12 point half time lead into a 28 point margin at three quarter time. A goal by Cobra dasher Jackson Dalton and successive majors by former AFL St Kilda star Justin Koschitze mid way through the third term gave the reigning premiers a handy break and from that point on the home side was able to keep Goon at an arm’s length.
In his one-off game Koschitze operated for most part out of the goal square and capped of the fine work up field by his team mates with five goals including four in the second half. His former Saint pal Aussie Jones now the Director of Coaching at Cora Lynn played off the interchange bench and was quiet appearing to favour his hamstring. He left the field early in the third term and did reappear however he did enter the game under a slight cloud.
Cora Lynn speedster Jackson Dalton starred. He kicked three goals and proved a menace for the Goon defence with his surging runs deep into the attacking fifty. Veteran Ricky Clarke, Nathan Gillis, Nathan Muratore, Anthony Giuiliano and Brady White figured prominently in and around the midfield with good support from ruckman David Main.
Despite their defeat the Goon gave its supporters plenty to saviour. Fielding half a dozen newcomers its best is still to come according to new coach Tom Hallinan, who has returned to the club after playing a key role in defence in Goon’s 2010 premiership team. The fleet footed Brendan Hermann reinforced he is genuine star of the competition, there was a lot to like about wingman Luke Failla and Devon Meadows recruit Ash Adams showed plenty. Rugged utility Matt Slattery had his usual bustling presence out of defence and through the midfield while Jacob Sweeney was solid down back and did more than a reasonable job on Koschitze.
The first full round of the EDFL season will commence after Easter on Saturday 11 April.
Photo Cora Lynn coach Travis Marsham addressing his players at quarter time.
Last Modified on 29/03/2015 09:41