MELBOURNE’S Queen’s Birthday weekend kicked off in style with the Casey Scorpions coming from behind to defeat Collingwood by four points at Casey Fields on Saturday.
The Scorpions trailed at the three-quarter time break by 11 points, but kicked three goals to one to win a thriller, 10.12.72 to 9.14.68.
Alex Neal-Bullen led the way for the Scorpions, along with Dom Tyson who highlighted his class in his first VFL game of the season.
In good but windy conditions, the Scorpions failed to get the start they wanted with the Magpies controlling the first quarter with the wind to take a 20-point lead into the first break.
Taking advantage of the wind in the second quarter, the Scorpions responded with Shannon Byrnes and Viv Michie getting amongst the goal kickers. Casey’s four goals to one gave them a two-point lead at half time.
Collingwood came out after the break to reclaim and quickly build a lead. Dom Tyson combined with Rohan Bail who kicked a goal to keep the Scorpions in touch before Ed Morris kicked truly after the three-quarter time siren to reduce the Magpie lead to 11 points.
The intensity went to another level in the final quarter with Collingwood trying desperately to protect their lead. Mark Jamar kicked the first for the Scorpions jamming it onto the boot from a stoppage before Casey’s Nathan Page gave them the lead approaching the halfway point of the quarter.
Rohan Bail’s second extended the Scorpions lead to nine points but the Magpies weren’t giving up, kicking a goal to bring the margin back within a kick with two minutes still on the clock.
Casey’s win was a vital one for the context of their season, now with a four and three record the Scorpions have consolidated their spot inside to top eight of the VFL ladder.
Alex Neal-Bullen played his best game of the season collecting 35 disposals as he continues his push for a senior debut. 21 of Neal-Bullen’s touches came in the second half when the game was on the line, he also laid a team-high six tackles and five inside-50.
Dom Tyson was outstanding in his comeback match, picking up 33 touches, six tackles and six inside 50’S.
Viv Michie’s consistent VFL form continued with 26 touches, but he also played a vital role after being moved onto Collingwood’s Sam Dwyer late in the second term.
Billy Stretch performed well with 21 possessions, Jordie McKenzie had 20 while James Harmes and Mark Jamar both had 19. For Jamar it was his most influential performance in his three game stint in the VFL with the Scorpions winning the hit-outs by 22.
The Scorpions will be back at Casey Fields next Saturday when they host Coburg from 2pm.
Click back to mebournefc.com.au later this week for a full round-up by Casey coach Justin Plapp.
