A full team effort following a four-week absence from the VFL competition has handed Sandringham an impressive 30-point win against Richmond.

Eager for redemption after their 40-point loss to Tigers in the 2021 season opener, the cohesive Zebras brought pressure and intensity to secure the commanding 14.12 (96) to 10.6 (66) result on their home deck.

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Richmond dominated the first term, but Jake Batchelor’s side came out firing after quarter-time to kick 12 goals – four of which came off the boot of former Saint Sam Dunell – to the Tigers’ six.

Jack Lonie (20 disposals) was reliable in front of goal for the Zebras slotting two in the second half, while Dean Kent (26 disposals, nine clearances, one goal) made a successful return after spending the better part of two months battling ongoing concussion symptoms.

Paul Hunter and Sam Alabakis dominated the undermanned Tigers in the ruck contest, combining for a total of 62 hit-outs. Hunter (42 hit-outs) also made his presence known around the ground with 19 disposals and a goal to help set the tone for the rest of the match.

Zebras debutant Cooper Sharman suited up for his first outing since joining St Kilda in the mid-season draft, finishing with 10 disposals and his first goal after showing his natural football ability and skill around the contest.

With the goals coming through readily for Sandringham, its defence was just as busy repelling the opposition’s attacks at the goal-face.

Led by Darragh Joyce (23 disposals, 10 marks) and Oscar Clavarino (13 disposals, five marks, one goal), the Zebras’ backline successfully quashed the influence of Richmond’s forward line after their flying start.

The pair once again showcased their dependability in the air bringing down crucial intercept marks throughout the match, while Dunell (11 marks) was just as proficient.

Sandringham will look to continue its winning streak when the side faces the eighth-placed Collingwood on Sunday 4 July at the Holden Centre.

VFL
Batch's Review: VFL returns as Zebras make it three on the trot

SANDRINGHAM 2.1 7.3 10.9 14.12 (96)

RICHMOND 4.1 6.3 9.5 10.6 (66)

GOALS:

Sandringham: Dunell 4, Carey 2, Lonie 2, Clavarino, Henness, Hunter, Kent, Lewis, Sharman

Richmond: Collier-Dawkins 2, Naish 2, Street 2, Caddy, Cumberland, Dow, Melville

BEST:

Sandringham: Dunell, Joyce, Lonie, Clavarino, Kent, Hunter

Richmond: Naish, Ross, Collier-Dawkins, Dow, Caddy

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