VFL-affiliate Werribee battled it out in a practice match against Williamstown at Whitten Oval and some of the Kangaroos newest arrivals got the chance to show what they’re made of.
Ex-Gold Coast Sun Taylor Hine made his debut for the Tigers and Development Coach John Lamont said the 21-year old showed great signs early on.
"He (Hine) was impressive in defence. He generally positioned himself well, showed good poise with the ball and followed up with his disposal," Lamont told NMFC.com.au.
”He missed a lot of the pre-season recovering from a shoulder reconstruction at the end of last year so he did a great job to play the way he did after only getting clearance to train a few weeks ago.”
Youngsters Tim McGenniss and Mason Wood were also in action and showed signs of what to expect.
"McGenniss is a hard runner and really proved himself with a great first half," Lamont added.
"Mason (Wood) kicked a good goal from a set shot in some pretty tough and windy conditions."
Ayden Kennedy performed well in defence after an injury-interrupted preparation in the latter part of his pre-season.
"Ayden was able to line up well on a variety of opponents. He played well in difficult conditions; his kicking was good and he found his targets. He’ll be better off for the run and the best thing is he pulled up well."
Ben Speight has a point to prove after being rookie-listed by the club, and he did his chances of a promotion no harm.
"Speighty landed a couple of good tackles and showed off the good pace which he’s known for."
Potential father-son Luke McDonald showed some good signs and will be one to watch this season.
“Luke played his role and had a positive start overall.
"He started in defence then made his way onto the wing in the second half where he was able to get a little more involved. He used the ball well.”
Recently-appointed development coach and former Sydney Swan Jarred Moore donned the Werribee colours for the first time and Lamont said it was fantastic to have his support both on and off the field.
"Bulldog (Moore) got a fair few touches. It was great to see a member of our coaching staff on the field and providing feedback to the players, both North Melbourne listed and Werribee."
Former Roo Ben Warren booted two goals for the Tigers in a 16-point win.
Werribee 7.10.52 defeated Williamstown 5.6.36
Werribee goals: Warren 2, Keras 2, Wood, Fairley, Eade
Werribee will take on the Sandringham Dragons next Saturday (March 9) in a practice match from 12pm at Sandringham Oval.
