Epping’s experienced players stood up in the final term to get the Blues across the line against Hurstbridge in Northern Football League’s division 2.
The Blues dominated from the start to take a 37-point lead into half-time.
Hurstbridge fought back in the second half and had reduced the margin to 15 points at the final break. It continued the pressure in the final term and hit the front, albeit briefly, before the Blues took it up a notch for a hard-fought 11-point win: 14.7 (91) to 12.8 (80).
PICTURE GALLERY: Epping v Hurstbridge
Blues coach Steve Power said the side lost its way in the second half.
“In the first half we stuck to the game plan and everyone contributed. We spread well and protected the footy.
“In the second half, Hurstbridge was told to take on the game and they’re a skilled side so it worked.
“We lost our way a little bit. With a young side we will have our troughs.
“I said to the boys it showed some real character to get the win after losing the lead in the final term.”
Power said experienced players, including Aaron Willots and Daniel Moore, stood up when needed.
“The young guys kept us in the game and the leaders got us across the line,” he said.
“This [performance] is what we’re about. We won’t get 10-goal wins. We’ll grind out wins’ we’re a developing side.
“It’s a tough competition. Before the season we would have taken this start.”
The win gives Epping a 3-2 record and puts it third on the ladder.
This week it takes on Fitzroy Stars, which lost to Mernda by 25 points, 15.21 (111) to 12.14 (86).
Also in division 2, Lalor lost to North Heidelberg 20.13 (133) to 6.5 (41).
In division 3, Thomastown defeated Heidelberg West and Reservoir beat Parkside.
