THE Northern Blues fell by 31 points to reigning premier Port Melbourne at RAMS Arena on Saturday.

After an even opening term, Port broke the game open in the middle portion of the game on the way to beating the Blues 14. 16. (100) to 10. 9. (69).

It was a game typified by Port displaying the game style which led it to a VFL premiership in 2017.

The Borough got the early jump with the first two goals in the opening five minutes, before Harry McKay and Andrew Phillips got the Blues on the board.

Some missed opportunities to close the opening term would hurt the Blues, as the second term belonged to Port Melbourne despite Jack Silvagni’s opener.

The reigning premiers opened up a 20-point lead at the main change, dominating the Blues in uncontested possessions.

It was a similar story when the teams emerged from the rooms for the second half, with Port kicking out to a game-high lead.

Northern’s forwards were making the most of limited opportunities, as the Borough dictated the play.

After trailing by 52 points early in the last quarter, the Blues kicked four straight goals through direct ball movement to give themselves a chance.

Port would hold on to hand the Blues a five-goal defeat in their final practice match of pre-season.

Nick Graham was typically resilient to lead the Blues with 27 disposals and 10 clearances, while Tom Wilson battled manfully in his first game for the year.

Silvagni finished with 11 disposals and three goals playing a number of roles, while McKay was prominent early on his way to a five-mark, two-goal game.


Jack Silvagni booted three goals against Port Melbourne. (Photo: Mozzed Video and Photography)

Jesse Palmer and Sam Rowe also got through their scheduled game-time. Palmer kicked a goal in the third quarter, while Rowe was stationed in the back half.

The Northern Blues get their season underway this upcoming Saturday, April 7 against Collingwood at Preston.

NORTHERN BLUES       2.4         4.5          6.6             10. 9. (69)

PORT MELBOURNE      3.1          7.7          11.11           14. 16. (100)

GOALS
Northern Blues: Silvagni 3, McKay 2, Kerr, Lebois, Palmer, Phillips, Williams

DISPOSALS
Northern Blues: Graham 27, Schumacher 21, Strachan 18, Wilson 18, O’Brien 14, Williams 14