Shattered Corowa-Rutherglen coach Terry Burgess has called the two-point loss to Wangaratta the most emotional of his career.
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The Roos now have the league’s fourth-longest losing streak of 27 after the 14.16 (100) to 15.8 (98) loss.
The gallant visitors led by more than five goals in the second half but, with no bench after quarter-time, tired as the Pies kicked five late goals.
“Probably mate (it is the most gut-wrenching loss in my time),” Burgess said.
“Just considering where the young guys are at and to be in a position to have a chance to win, it is mate, it’s emotional.”
After missing a stack of their best players the previous week, the Roos welcomed star recruit James Lawton and Adam Cullen for their debuts, while VFL-listed players James Svarc and Mick Mattingly also played.
Lawton was outstanding, kicking two goals, while also starring in the ruck.
“It’s what you’d call getting out of jail,” Wangaratta coach Dean Stone said.