Whitford stars as Blues taught a tough lesson

LAUNCESTON has learned the difference between contenders and pretenders the hard way as North Launceston demonstrated the class difference between it and the rest of the competition.

If the TSL needed a reminder of the shock and awe power of the Northern Bombers, it was on full display at University of Tasmania Stadium last night as they belted Launceston, which many consider to be their main premiership rivals, by 56 points.

So impressive was the home side, it won every quarter.

New playing-coach Taylor Whitford, who missed a fair chunk of last season through injury, was awarded the Adam Sanders Medal as best afield, dominating the midfield and kicking a goal to boot.

Their team defence was outstanding, led by Mark Walsh in the midfield, limiting the Blues to just eight goals for the night.

“Our defensive group is pretty new compared to last year so it is going to take time for them to jell,” Whitford said.

“I think that probably comes down to the pressure we were able to put around the contest.”

Up forward Zach Burt snagged six goals, while last year’s Alastair Lynch and Darrel Baldock medallist, captain Brad Cox-Goodyer continued his outstanding form with three.

For Launceston it was a reality check after last season’s outstanding finals series and strong recruiting. Playingcoach Sam Lonergan, who missed the game with a hamstring strain, was philosophical about the defeat.

“You always want to walk away with a win but I think for us it was a good opportunity to identify some weaknesses, which is great because Round 1 is the time of year you want to do it,” Lonergan said.

Rulla Kelly-Mansell booted three goals for the Blues and in his first game for his new club, former South Launceston and Devonport coach Mitch Thorp kicked two.

The first round of the TSL will conclude today with Lauderdale hosting Clarence starting at 2pm.