Tasmania Devils Make Winning Start in VFL Debut Against Coburg
The Tasmania Devils have celebrated a triumphant beginning to their journey in the Victorian Football League (VFL), securing a 17-point victory over Coburg in their inaugural match. This historic win unfolded in front of a sold-out suburban home crowd at North Hobart Oval on Saturday, setting a positive tone for the club as it builds towards its entry into the Australian Football League (AFL) in 2028.
Dominant Performance Leads to Victory
In the round-one clash, the Devils led at every change, ultimately posting a final score of 14.12 (96) to Coburg's 11.13 (79). The team has framed the next two seasons in the second-tier VFL as crucial for their development and preparation for the top league. Key players shone brightly, with young West Australian Jed Hagan and former Fremantle and West Coast player Hugh Dixon each kicking four goals, showcasing their offensive prowess.
Local favourite and veteran Sam Siggins, who previously spent time on the Adelaide Crows' roster and signed from Hobart club Lauderdale, had the honour of slotting the Devils' first goal in the 13th minute. He was fed by Hagan before nailing a set shot from about 30 meters out. Siggins and former North Melbourne rookie Geordie Payne each contributed two majors, adding to the team's scoring depth.
Game Highlights and Crowd Support
The Devils entered the final term with a 74-59 lead and quickly extended it by racking up the first three goals. Although Coburg rallied, Tasmania held on to secure the win in front of a sold-out crowd of 10,634 passionate fans. This marked the Devils' maiden outing as a franchise, having been part of the VFL from 2001 to 2008. The team ran out through a banner that read, "Back in the VFL. It's been a long wait, the comp hasn't been good since 2008," highlighting the significance of their return.
Despite Coburg winning on the stats sheet with 365 disposals to Tasmania's 284 and leading inside-50s 61-54, the Devils' performance where it mattered most—on the scoreboard—proved decisive. Hagan, a former All-Australian at under-18 level, also impressed with 17 disposals and eight tackles, demonstrating his all-around skills.
Key Moments and Future Prospects
The Devils opened up a 27-22 lead at quarter-time, thanks to a running goal from defender Brandon Leary on the siren. They then went on a run of four majors either side of the first term to establish a 23-point advantage. Coburg, who finished mid-table in the VFL in 2025, fought back with three consecutive goals to trail 52-51 at the main break. In the third quarter, Tasmania scrambled strongly, crucially limiting Coburg to just one goal for the term, which helped maintain their lead.
This victory comes after the club passed a significant hurdle in December when state parliament approved the construction of a new $1.13 billion stadium, a condition of their AFL licence. This development underscores the long-term commitment to football in Tasmania and sets the stage for future successes as the Devils continue their build-up to the AFL.
