The Northern Blues have snapped a 7-game losing streak, returning to the winners list in emphatic style on Sunday afternoon as Damian Tardio reports. In a battle of the "cellar dwellers", the Northern Blues were too strong for Frankston and came out comfortable 48-point winners and in doing so have relegated the Dolphins to last on the Peter Jackson VFL ladder.
Led by impressive performances from Carlton midfielders David Ellard (34 disposals) and Kane Lucas (28), the Blues led from start to finish.
Celebrating his first win since taking over the reigns Coach Darren Harris was over the moon with the result.
"It was enjoyable to get out there and finally get some reward for effort. We fought really hard for this result and it is fantastic that we have come away the win."
Gaining a reputation for fast starters, the Northern Blues jumped out of the blocks early with five straight goals to head into the quarter time break with a 9-point lead. Forwards Bret Thornton and Luke Mitchell commenced the game in great form, with Thornton booting 2 goals for the term and Mitchell proving hard to match up on for the Frankston defence.
With Robbie Warnock getting first use of the ball at the stoppages, the Blues dominated general field play, though were unable to capitalise on their dominance thus keeping the door ajar for Frankston at half time as the margin was cut to a narrow 3 points at the main change.
Not content with their performance in the first half, the Blues were out to make a statement in the third term and with a six goal burst extended the lead to 35 points midway through the quarter, before Frankston kicked the final 2 of the quarter to keep in touch by 21 points at the final break.
With victory in sight, the Blues didn't let the opportunity slip, and continued to keep up the pressure, with a number of Carlton-listed players, beginning to hit good form as the margin blew out to 8 goals by the final siren.
"With the likes of White, Casboult, Davies and Heyne returning from injury we hope to get more players in good form to have an impact at AFL level," said Harris.
Harris was complimentary of the performance of Carlton rookie Tom Bell who had 20 disposals and kicked 3 goals.
Harris also attributed the win to former coach Robert Hyde.
"Obviously I wish it had worked out better for Hydey, because he put a lot of hard work into this team and I hope he enjoyed the win."
With the week off due to the bye the Northern Blues will be looking ahead to their clash against Port Melbourne in round 17 at traditional home Preston City Oval. Frankston this weekend host Box Hill Hawks on Sunday.
Photo: Kim O'Sullivan
Last Modified on 10/07/2012 17:01