The key-forward played three senior games at the start of this season but was sidelined by a bruised nerve in his lower leg and has been missing from action since.
He was named among Werribee’s best players despite its loss to Box Hill, finishing with 14 possessions, 3 goals and 4 marks.
“Taz (Tarrant) has shown a great attitude during this whole time in what was a frustrating and unique injury,” North development coach John Lamont told NMFC.com.au after the match.
"All along he’s maintained his focus and worked really closely with the medicos so it was no surprise for him to play well because he’s done everything right, listened to the right people and took absolutely everything on board.”
The 24-year-old’s game time was limited to ensure a smooth return, but his output was impressive after such a long layoff.
“Robbie had modified game time, didn’t come on until quarter-time but handled that really well.
“He was a little rusty, fumbled a couple of things as you would expect, but he will only get better. He worked in well with the other forwards and helped set up a few important goals.
“He’s pulled up well and it was a really positive comeback game for him after missing so long.”
Through the middle, Jordan Gysberts (23 disposals) continued his strong form at the Beehive as he looks to push a case for selection.
“It was a good first quarter from Jordan, he started really well. He’s continuing to put in good performances. He had a really steady game and continues to improve which is fantastic to see.”
Rookie Tim McGenniss (20 disposals) was also one of Werribee’s best.
“It was a very good game from Tim but he did drop off in the forth quarter. He continues to show improvement each week, he’s working hard at his footy and showing positive signs every single game.”
Majak Daw was another welcome addition for the Tigers (14 possessions, 1 goal).
“Majak’s missed a couple of weeks. He was okay, but would have liked him to have a little bit more impact,” Lamont added.
“He did some good things, fumbled a few and struggled when the team couldn’t get the ball into him - but he did pretty well.”
Will Sierakowski (17 touches) highlighted his versatility as a player despite difficult circumstances.
“Will was really steady in defence through the first half when they were under siege down there, then he went on to the wing in the second half to create a bit more run for the team. He had a pleasing performance.”
Meanwhile, Daniel Currie (17 possessions) had plenty of influence in his second game back from a broken thumb.
“Again, Dan was solid in the ruck. Played second up, was pretty good and took a couple of good marks. Now with two games under his belt he’ll start to work into the form we know he’s capable of.”
In defence, Ayden Kennedy (12 possessions) was kept busy by the Hawks’ attacking threats.
“(He) defended well at times and had some really good spoils. He was steady without having major influence.”
Ben Speight (11 touches, 1 goal) and Mason Wood (15 disposals) worked hard but still have some clear areas to work on.
“Ben had a difficult mid/forward role and wasn’t able to exert the sort of influence that he would have liked.
“Mason still needs to develop his strength and improve on his pressure and tackling efforts.”
Kieran Harper wasn’t able to compete after half-time as he experienced pain in his ankle.
“Kieran had a really bright start and was a little bit unlucky with the ankle again. We decided to take no risk with him after the break.”
Werribee Tigers 2.3 4.7 8.8 10.12 (72)
Box Hill Hawks 7.3 10.5 13.9 17.13 (115)
GOALS:
Werribee Tigers: Tarrant 3 Maric 2 Speight Sherlock McKinley Daw Warren
Box Hill Hawks: Tobin 3 Grimley 3 Hallahan 3 Wanganeen 2 Northe 2 Murphy Cheney Langford Wood
