SANDRINGHAM has fallen agonisingly short of victory in their first competitive hit out for 2015, going down to the Northern Blues by three points at Ikon Park.

The Zebras were initially slow out of the blocks, but lifted in the second half to challenge the home side right to the end.

The Blues looked well in control in the opening half, dominating proceedings and taking a commanding 24-point lead into the main break.

The visitors found some spark immediately after half time, producing a stunning six goal to two third term, bringing them within a point of the stunned Blues.

The final term was the tightest of all, with both teams registering four goals in a hard-fought arm wrestle.

The Zebras had plenty of run in the legs but fell just short.

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Of the goal kickers, Saints rookie Brenton Payne (2 goals) and Spencer White (2 goals) led the way, while Jason Holmes booted one and looked on top all day in the ruck.

Sandringham senior coach and St Kilda development coach Paul Hudson said he was pleased with how his team finished the game.

“We tried a few things today - different personnel through the midfield, defensive match ups up forward and more attacking options across half-back,” Hudson told SAINTS.com.au.

“I thought our second half was better than our first half, which was positive, because we (the coaching staff) are learning just as much as the players.”

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Despite the loss, Hudson was satisfied with the efforts of his young players, especially the likes of Hugh Goddard and Daniel McKenzie (who had seven tackles for the game).

“These boys are first year players and are going to take some time to develop. We’re pleased they ran out the game well and got involved,” he said. 

SANDRINGHAM: 13.6 (84)

NORTHERN BLUES: 13.9 (87)

BEST: Holmes, Simpkin, Goddard, McKenzie, Saunders

GOALS: Payne 2, White 2, Hayes 2, Kreymborg, Zijai, Dennis-Lane, Cook, Simpkin, Saunders, Holmes