Tasmania Devils VFL Season Ends in Semi-Final Defeat to Essendon
The Tasmania Devils’ inaugural VFL season came to a close after a 101-74 semi-final loss to Essendon at a wet North Hobart Oval, according to reports from Pulse Tasmania and the ABC. A crowd of 8,012 spectators watched the Devils exit the finals in straight sets on Saturday, following an 89-66 loss to Geelong in the previous week’s qualifying final. Tasmania finished fourth in the regular season standings, earning two chances at the finals in their debut campaign.
Match Breakdown and Statistics
According to Pulse Tasmania, the match was a physical contest featuring numerous scraps on a slippery surface. Essendon established an early lead, heading into quarter-time up 25-14. The Devils narrowed the deficit to just eight points by the main break, with the Bombers holding a 57-49 advantage. However, Essendon’s lineup—bolstered by 18 AFL-listed players, including former Devil Jackson Artemis, as noted by the ABC—pulled away in the second half to extend their lead to 15 points at three-quarter time before securing the 27-point victory. Lachlan Hay led the Devils’ attack with two goals, while Bailey Boag topped the team’s disposal count.
Fan Reactions Amid Wet Conditions
Despite dreary weather conditions, passionate supporters turned out in force at North Hobart Oval. Devils fans Lee and Lucy Edwards told the ABC they remained confident in the team’s prospects, noting previous wet-weather success earlier in the year at York Park. Supporter Ann Sigley brought a hand-knitted bear mascot named “mini Rum’un” to the stands, while Bombers fan Manassa Walker acknowledged supporting local Wynyard players on the Tassie side while backing Essendon at heart. James Rogerson, wearing both a Devils jumper and a Bombers scarf, told the ABC that the team reaching a home semi-final after just one pre-season together was a major achievement well above expectations.
Did you know? The Tasmania Devils secured a fourth-place finish in their regular VFL season, earning two matches in the club’s inaugural finals campaign despite only having one pre-season together as a unified team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Tasmania Devils’ first VFL season end?
The Devils were eliminated in a 101-74 semi-final loss to Essendon at North Hobart Oval, finishing their inaugural campaign in straight sets after a previous loss to Geelong.
What was the attendance at the VFL semi-final in North Hobart?
A crowd of 8,012 spectators attended the match at North Hobart Oval, according to Pulse Tasmania.
How many AFL-listed players played for Essendon in the match?
Essendon fielded 18 AFL-listed players during the clash against Tasmania, according to ABC News.
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