By Jonty Ralphsmith
A fourth quarter fade-out cost Casey a major scalp in the VFL going down 12.8(80) to 9.8(62) to Footscray at Whitten Oval.
The Demons got out to a 26-point lead midway through the third quarter after back-to-back Tom Fullarton goals, but the visitors’ only goals thereafter were a pair of junk time majors to emerging talent Paddy Cross, once the result was a foregone conclusion.
It’s a bitter pill for Casey, given its experience in close finishes so far this season – and the fact they won all the key metrics.
As well as winning possession, Casey’s pressure was superior, laying 24 more tackles and winning clearances by 11, leading to 13 more inside 50s, but they were unable to put it on the scoreboard.
Seasoned VFL players Riley Baldi and Mitch Hardie were the major ball-winners, while Cross influenced the game with 12 disposals, eight tackles and three goals.
Journeyman ruck Tom Campbell, meanwhile, had a strong battle with Western Bulldogs AFL-listed Lachlan Smith, a Bunyip junior.
Campbell had 21 disposals and 41 hitouts, while Smith had 11 disposals, a goal, nine tackles and 39 hitouts.
The Demons sit 13th on the table with a 2-1-3 record, and host fourth-placed Southport this weekend.
Meanwhile, Casey’s women remain winless after going down 11.13(79) to 2.2(14) against the same opponent.
Zoe Mitchell, Tylah Burn and Meg MacDonald were among the better players.
The Dees will face sixth-placed Essendon this weekend.
