THE Northern Beaches Blues have proven to be genuine premiership contenders after passing their ultimate test with flying colours, becoming the first team to beat the Coffs Harbour Breakers this AFL North Coast season.

The Blues emerged victorious by 20 points winning 14.7 (91) to 10.11 (71) against the undefeated ladder ladders away from home at Fitzroy Oval.

The Blues kicked the opening goal of the match which seemed to spark the Breakers into action, as they kicked the next four straight goals to take a 10-point lead into quarter time.

Both heavyweight sides traded blows in a back-and-forth battle, as one side would hit straight back constantly when the other team scored, with the match living up to its billing of a top of the table clash.

A goal to the Breakers just on half-time saw both teams head into the sheds locked at 41-41.

A dominant third quarter from the Blues would be pivotal, with a 4 goal to 1 period from the visitors proving to be decisive as they took an 18-point lead into three-quarter time.

The Blues locked down defensively against the ladder leaders in the premiership quarter, as their relentless pressure shut down the Breakers free-flowing run and carry game.

An early fourth quarter goal to the Blues all but sealed the match.

The Northern Beaches Blues women’s side also beat the ladder leading Coffs Harbour Breakers winning by one goal in a thrilling contest.

The Blues became the first team to beat the Breakers this season in the women’s competition.

Blues coach Adrian Roberts emphasised the key aspect which led to his side beating the ladder leaders.

“We have the speed and skill we just needed to match their physicality, which we did,” he said.

“Contested possession was key and our midfield matched them which led to the attack.”

Roberts said his side had been building towards the performance needed to beat the reigning premiers.

“We played them in the grand final last year and we’ve been gradually improving since,” he said.

“I said to the girls we’ve been improving each week and the next hurdle was being physical with them and beating them.”

The AFL North Coast season continues tomorrow with Round 10 matches, with the Sawtell/Toormina Saints hosting the Northern Beaches Blues at Richardson Park, and the Coffs Harbour Breakers hosting the Nambucca Valley Lions at Fitzroy Oval.

Round 9 results

Seniors

Northern Beaches Blues 14.7 (91) def. Coffs Harbour Breakers 10.11 (71)

Port Macquarie Magpies 12.18 (90) def. Lismore Swans 4.1 (25)

Sawtell/Toormina Saints 10.11 (71) def. Nambucca Valley 10.6 (66)

Grafton Tigers 25.26 (176) def. Casino Lions 7.1 (43)

Women’s

Northern Beaches Blues 5.3 (33) def. Coffs Harbour Breakers 4.3 (27)

Lismore Swans 3.1 (19) def. Port Macquarie 0.6 (6)

 

By Aiden BURGESS