SOUTHPORT entered the clash looking to finish the season on a high and was forced to fight from behind for much of the contest before producing a strong finish to overcome the Lions.
Coburg made the better start in the opening term, kicking five goals to Southport’s four to take a seven-point lead into the first break.
Matt McGuinness (13 disposals, five goals) was already proving a handful inside forward 50, beginning what would become a dominant day in front of goal as the Sharks kept themselves within striking distance. Southport finished the opening quarter with four goals to remain firmly in the contest.
The Lions continued to hold the advantage in the second quarter, adding another five goals while Southport managed four majors of its own.
McGuinness continued to lead the way offensively, while Michael Manteit (17 disposals, two goals) and Oscar Wood (11 disposals, two goals) provided important contributions as the Sharks stayed within reach despite Coburg extending its advantage.
At half time, the Lions held an 11-point lead, 10.3 (63) to 8.4 (52), leaving Southport with plenty of work to do after the main break.
The third quarter saw the momentum begin to shift.
Southport matched Coburg with three goals for the term while tightening the contest defensively, with the Sharks’ ability to stay in the fight allowing them to edge in front for the first time since the early stages of the game. Max Spencer (35 disposals, 15 marks) lead the way in defence.
McGuinness continued his outstanding day in front of goal, while Brayden Crossley (40 hitouts, 16 disposals, two goals) stood up as Southport turned an 11-point half-time deficit into a one-point lead at the final change.
With the contest still firmly in the balance, Southport held its nerve in the final quarter.
The Sharks kicked four goals to Coburg’s three to finish the job, with McGuinness completing a superb five-goal performance as Southport held on for a six-point victory.
Michael Cilmi, Crossley and Manteit each finished with two goals, while Wood also added two majors. Noah Casalini and Bailey Rawson contributed singles as Southport finished with 15 goals for the afternoon.
Jacob Dawson was among the Sharks’ standout performers, leading a strong group that also included Spencer, Zac Foot (26 disposals) and Crossley. Finn Hay executed another lock-down role, and Matt McGuinness kicked career high five goals.
COBURG LIONS 5.2 10.3 11.5 14.8 (92)
SOUTHPORT 4.1 8.4 11.6 15.8 (98)
GOALS: McGuinness 5, Cilmi 2, Crossley 2, Manteit 2, Wood 2, Casalini, Rawson
BEST PLAYERS: Dawson, Spencer, Foot, Crossley, Hay, McGuinness
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