Two of the constant themes of Devonport’s season were on show as the Pies fell to Hobart City by 27 points at home on Saturday.
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The positive aspect of a “never say die” attitude and effort mixed with skill errors that hurt so much.
Mitch Thorp’s Devonport outfit fought until the final siren of their 10.7 (67) to 5.10 (40) loss at Devonport Oval.
“The most pleasing thing was that the boys didn’t give in, and that has been pretty consistent throughout the second half of the year,’’ Thorp said.
“[But] we just turned the ball over a lot, and I thought we had got past that, but there scores from turnovers really hurt us.”
With conditions heavy under foot following the week’s rain, it was a slugfest which never really reached any great heights, but featured two sides who were up for a fight.
Both teams had periods of dominance when it came to territory and possession, with extra numbers in defence playing a part.
But Hobart City were able to make their strong moments count enough on the scoreboard to always be in control, with their transition from the back-line a highlight.
An 11-point lead at quarter-time, grew to 24 at the long break, with the Demons out by as much as 42 during the third before the Pies got themselves back into the contest.
Youngster Sherrin Egger, along with Brad Symmons and Brayden Butler, were superb for the Magpies.
All three displayed that commitment to the cause over four quarters that Thorp had spoken of.
For the victors, Callan Dell [three goals], Josh Williamson, William Campbell and Jayden Charlton played starring roles.
Dell was out of the game before three quarter-time with a tight hamstring.
Hobart City coach Kane Richter said he was pleased with the way his group bounced back after their heavy loss to Lauderdale.
“The boys’ effort, attitude and mindset going into the game, especially after last week when we were pretty disappointing,’’ he said.
“I thought we moved the ball really positively today.”
Hobart City’s seventh win has seen them draw level on points with fifth-placed Launceston, with the two teams to clash in a fortnight.
Before that, the Demons face Clarence at North Hobart Oval.
The 1-13 Magpies will be on the road to face Lauderdale on Saturday.