UPDATE: Werribee’s hopes of defending their Victorian Football League premiership have officially vanished following a decisive defeat at the hands of Richmond on Saturday, July 15, 2023. The match at Melbourne Avalon Airport Oval began with a shocking 41-7 first quarter, setting the tone for a game that ended with a score of 15.9 (99) to 7.11 (53).
Werribee needed a series of wins in their final matches to secure a spot in the top ten, but this loss has effectively ended their season. Coach Jimmy Allan expressed disappointment, stating, “It was a very ordinary performance. We were completely outplayed.”
Despite a brief surge in the third quarter, where Werribee showed signs of life, Richmond’s relentless pressure proved too much. Allan highlighted the team’s early errors, leading to repeated entries into Werribee’s defensive zone: “It felt like Richmond was scoring every time they went in there early on,” he said.
Werribee’s inconsistencies have plagued them throughout the season, as they currently sit in 15th position on the ladder, three games away from the top ten with just three matches left to play. The team will have a bye this week, confirming the end of their finals aspirations.
Allan acknowledged that while the squad is young, the need for improvement is urgent: “We lean on the fact that we have a young side, but senior players are making errors as well. It’s right across the board.”
In a standout moment for Werribee, forward Hudson Garoni kicked four goals despite facing heavy defensive scrutiny. He was often outnumbered in contests but still managed to shine as one of the team’s best performers. Midfielder Jack Riding dominated with 35 possessions, while teammate Louis Pinnuck contributed 30 touches.
As Werribee reflects on the disappointing season, the team is set to evaluate their roster during the bye week and will likely have several players participate in local competitions, pending medical clearance. Allan noted, “We’ll find out who is up to the level and who is not in the next couple of weeks.”
The Werribee Tigers are now focused on rebuilding for the future, as this season’s struggles have revealed the need for significant changes. With the finals out of reach, the team will look to finish strong in their remaining matches and assess their performance moving forward.
With the season conclusion approaching, fans will be watching closely to see how Werribee responds in the final weeks of play.
