NORTHERN Blues have held off a late charge from Sandringham to win by 18 points at a sunny Visy Park on Saturday, writes Luke Armstrong
Three unanswered goals at the start of the final term saw the Zebras draw within 10 points, but the home side held on to claim an important win.
The brute strength of Tom Bell was crucial to the Blues, with his third and final goal ensuring the hosts moved 23 points clear late in the fourth term.
Levi Casboult, Tom Wilson and Kane Lambert snared two apiece, with Casboult’s contested marking a feature of the match.
Ruckman Nick Meese was another key ingredient in the final term, his mobility belying his size.
Trent Dennis-Lane booted three for the Zebras, with Beau Dowler adding two to his season’s tally, while Tom ledger continued his stellar season with 26 possessions.
With both sides playing a contested brand of football, the opening term turned into a slog that ended all square at 15 points apiece.
With co-captains Brent Bransgrove and Andre Gianfagna firing, and Aaron Joseph showing plenty of dash off half back, the Blues were able to up the ante and head to main break 13-points clear.
The charge continued in the third with Kane Lambert’ courageous mark going back with the flight of the ball the highlight.
The Blues’ superior skills by foot split the game open, ensuring healthy 26-point advantage at the final change.
But the Zebras, inaccurate for most of the afternoon, found their range at the start of the last to pile on the pressure.
Sam Dunell was electric, driving his side into attack and three quick goals were soon on the board.
But just as an upset loomed, Andrew Collins stood up with a great mark on the run and his converted shot shut the gate.
The Blues are at home again next Sunday in another must-win-match against Werribee, while Sandringham play Collingwood at Trevor Barker Beach Oval on Saturday.
Last Modified on 12/08/2013 13:00