Collingwood’s Mason Cox was the goal of some Richmond consideration.Credit score: Getty Photographs
The Magpies gave marking tall Ash Johnson the chance to fill the injured Daniel McStay’s function inside 50, however he was goalless and had solely six disposals. Reef McInnes, additionally jostling for the function, was injected within the second half, contributed a purpose however had solely three touches. Simply who will get the nod alongside the likes of Brody Mihocek, Jamie Elliott and Mason Cox, the latter having fun with a powerful marking night time, and a scuffle with Marlion Pickett on the ultimate siren, stays some extent of debate.
Lipinski snapped the Magpies’ opening purpose after 19 minutes, whereas former Docker Lachie Schultz introduced his famend strain near purpose.
Nick Daicos had an early blunder when a retreat kick inadvertently discovered Balta on the lead, however he was quickly again to his clean transferring finest with 10 first-quarter touches. Norm Smith medallist Bobby Hill didn’t have a contact till halfway by way of the second time period, however got here alive with a purpose off a left-foot snap from a stoppage.
The information
Martin has hung out coaching with the midfield group this summer season, and has set private finest data within the fitness center, in accordance with teammate Jayden Quick. He discovered loads of uncontested ball within the first half, however couldn’t ship the benefit the Tigers wished.
Josh Daicos, having managed a foot challenge over summer season, confirmed no indicators of concern. Brayden Maynard was again to full health after post-season shoulder surgical procedure.
Toby Nankervis’ absence (foot) – the captain might solely say he was “hopeful” of taking part in within the season opener – meant Sam Naismith and Samson Ryan had the ruck duties. Naismith was very good, having 10 contested possessions to half-time, and is locked in to face the Gold Coast Suns.
What it’s good to know
Veterans Scott Pendlebury (knee) and Jeremy Howe (calf cork) will head into the brand new season with out contact work in opposition to an opposition aspect. Every missed final week’s match simulation in opposition to North Melbourne, and once more have been absent.
“I copped a heavy knock a few weeks in the past. I simply don’t really feel proper … however I’ve a chance to get it proper for the opening spherical,” Howe mentioned.
Tigers Lynch (foot), Nick Vlastuin (managed) Rhyan Mansell (syndesmosis) and Sam Banks (calf tightness) all sat out. Lynch instructed Fox Footy he had not given up hope of going through Carlton in spherical one. “If it’s not spherical one, it is going to be spherical two,” he mentioned.
Liam Baker, who’s off contract this season, captained the Tigers.
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Skilled’s view
Magpies ruckman Darcy Cameron might face scrutiny for a late try to spoil in a marking contest on Tylar Younger on the wing within the third time period, though the contact appeared minimal.
Key gamers
Darcy Moore
The premiership skipper had minor wrist surgical procedure earlier than Christmas, however confirmed no indicators of concern in opposition to the Tigers within the three quarters he performed in defence earlier than resting. “I haven’t actually missed a beat in January and February, so I’m feeling actually good,” Moore mentioned at the AFL captains day on Monday.
Dustin Martin
The three-time premiership nice has had an excellent pre-season, and seems to have been re-energised below a brand new coach. He moved effectively up ahead and thru the midfield, and even did a spot of on-field teaching of teammates.
Dion Prestia
The hardnut midfielder has had hamstring points over the previous month, however moved effectively and can play within the season opener.
Jordan De Goey
The Magpies want the explosive midfielder to be at his finest if they’re to take care of the fashion this season. The way during which De Goey began suggests he’s prepared for a profession yr.
What’s subsequent
The 2 groups now put together for the season opener. The Tigers have a spicy twilight conflict in opposition to outdated coach Damien Hardwick and his Gold Coast Suns at Heritage Financial institution Stadium on Saturday, March 9. The Magpies, on the identical night time, have a preliminary remaining rematch in opposition to Larger Western Sydney at Giants Stadium.
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