Werribee was blown away in the middle quarters by Richmond in a 38-point loss in the Victorian Football League at Avalon Airport Oval on Saturday.
In quarters two and three, Werribee was out-scored 13.6 to 3.6, a 10-goal differential that led to its demise, but it could have got significantly worse if the side had decided to put the cue in the rack.
If Werribee has displayed a trademark in the opening four rounds, it is a willingness to fight until the end.
Werribee ran out the game strongly, out-scoring a AFL talent-laden Richmond side 6.6 to 1.3 in the final quarter.
Werribee coach John Lamont lauded the effort.
“At three-quarter time, the game could have gone a couple of ways,” he said.
“Our objective was to win the last quarter and to get more efficient with our tackling, which, at times, let us down, particularly in quarters two and three.
“We tackled better, generated 19 inside-50s and kicked 6.6, so we’ve ended the game positively.
“Obviously, everyone understands in those situations that the opposition can potentially relax a little bit. But even allowing for that, our boys played the type of footy we’re asking them to play in that last quarter.”
Kurt Aylett was outstanding in the midfield for Werribee. He finished with 33 disposals, eight marks and four tackles.
Sam Collins was once again the intercept king, reeling in 14 marks as he steadied the defence.
Jordan Henderson had a key tagging role on dangerous Tigers small forward Shai Bolton, while Dom Brew was always willing to put his head over the ball.
Tom Gribble, Matt Hanson and Ben Moloney racked up 25-plus possessions.
In the end, Richmond had too much class and deserved its win.
“They’re a good team and their club is playing with great spirit at AFL and VFL level,” Lamont said.
“There are no easy games in the VFL, but we know Richmond is going to be right on the mark.”
Werribee will be back at Avalon Airport Oval on Saturday for a 5pm twilight game against Collingwood. Entering the game at 1-3, Werribee will be desperate to make up some ground on sides in the top eight.
