WERRIBEE added another chapter to Casey’s lamentable finals record as it clinically ended the Scorpions season.
For the fourth successive season Casey was bundled out of the finals in straight sets.
And, Werribee’s 40-point victory, 19.10 (124) to 12.12 (84) extended the Scorpions’ losing streak in finals to 10.
Casey Scorpions, contesting its seventh successive final, last won a final in the 2008 Elimination Final.
While it was an all-too familiar story with the number of available Melbourne players in Casey’s team shrinking as the season entered the business end, it would be remise to take away from Werribee’s strong performance.
Werribee looked the more polished, committed and structured team as they increased its lead at every change.
The VFL Tigers doubled its five-point quarter lead at the main break in what was an entertaining match with momentum shifting dramatically throughout the first half.
While Casey won plenty of the ball its delivery, by both hand and foot, put it under pressure when they had the chance to apply scoreboard pressure.
Werribee was able to break open the match with a six to two goal third quarter and left Casey staring at another inevitable end to the season.
Casey forward Tim Smith kicked four of the Scorpions goals, but he like full forward Tom Gillies had no impact as the Werribee defence led by Scott Clouson and Sam Wormald shut down the Scorpions’ scoring.
Once again 2012 Liston Trophy winner Ben Ross showed his class and he generated so much drive from half back and his use of the ball set up repeated scoring opportunities.
Ross’ season has been on an upward spiral since the finals started and with Jarred Moore providing all the blue-collar work at the stoppages, Werribee’s key players again had a telling say in the result.
Former Sydney Swan Brett Meredith was another key contributor. Meredith’s ability to rack up possessions and use them to advantage was pivotal.
Young North Melbourne ruckman Daniel Currie is an AFL player in waiting. Currie controlled the ruck contests and his marking around the ground and his heavy work was a feature.
Former Demon/Tiger Addam Maric kicked four goals in a lively display while Ben Warren chipped in four as well.
Tim McGennis deserves mention for subduing the influence of prolific possession winner James Magner.
Teenager Luke McDonald is going to match his dad, Donald in games played for North Melbourne. The kids just oozes class.
McDonald is much more athletic than his father, uses the ball well and his ability to read the play shows a maturity way beyond his years.
Last Modified on 10/09/2013 17:01