Richmond to just two goals. The final score was Bendigo 15.15 (105) to Richmond 2.11 (23).
Some young Bombers impressed in the hit out, none more so than first year player Jake Carlisle who played particularly well up forward. Playing across half forward – selection number 24 in the 2009 draft – kicked four goals and moved well.
Darcy Daniher played deep forward and was another to impress finishing the game with three goals. The Bombers’ coaching staff was particularly pleased with his work ethic and forward pressure throughout the game.
“Michael got through the game really well and it was pleasing to see that he seemed to get more comfortable as the game went on,” Knights said. “We were really pleased with his efforts today considering he’s had an interrupted pre-season because of the wrist.""
“He has obviously missed large chunks of training because of the wrist injury but he is over that now and he definitely showed his class today.”
Jay Neagle, 21, also appeared to have found fitness, providing a mobile marking target in attack.
“Jay’s leading work was really good today. There are obviously some areas of his game that he needs to work on but he is definitely getting there,” Knights said.
“He took a step forward today and hopefully he carries that into the lead up to the season and he is fighting for a position come Round 1.”
Impressed with the overall efforts of the side, Knights said a number of players from today’s match would certainly come under consideration for the club’s Round 1 opener against Geelong.
“I think there were four or five guys who really put their hands up today,” Knights said.
“I think Leroy Jetta played really well all game and our forward line of Jay Neagle, Jake Carlisle, Michael Hurley and Darcy Daniher really presented well and worked well together and won contested marks in their own right.
“Overall I was really impressed with the way they teamed together. With a young team and Shannon Grant coming in as a new coach, it takes a little bit of getting used to but we have been working hard to get the best out of our footy and all the younger guys have been digesting it all and it really showed today.”
Other first-year Bombers to impress were Kyle Hardingham and Marcus Marigliani. Hardingham played across half back while Marigliani played in the midfield. Tyson Slattery played an excellent game down back, impressing with his courage and attack on the football.
The only injury concern for the Bombers is Leroy Jetta who dislocated a thumb.
