In what was a crucial contest for both sides in terms of ladder positions, the Scorpions were slow out of the blocks, allowing Coburg to kick six goals to three in the first quarter.

The second quarter was no different as the Tigers controlled the play, while the Scorpions were slowly kicking into gear. At the half-time break Casey trailed Coburg by 12 points.

After half-time it was a much more switched on Scorpions unit that came out to play, winning more of the ball around the clearances and playing a much more efficient style of football.

Coming into the last quarter the Scorpions had cut the margin to just three points and were looking good to come away with the points in front of their home crowd.

In a tight last quarter, the Scorpions were unable to make the required impression on the scoreboard and lost 14.5 (89) to 13.10(88).

Casey was unable to quell the influence of Coburg spearhead Clayton Collard who helped himself to six goals.

Jarryd Allen played well for Casey, kicking four goals and providing a great target to kick to in attack.

After getting some experience in St Kilda's side, Allen has returned with a new level of confidence and looked threatening all day. Ben McEvoy proved to be a difficult match-up for Coburg when he went forward, kicking three goals and causing panic among the Tigers' defenders.

After a quiet few weeks James Wall returned to the form he is capable of, holding the Casey back line together in the absence of the injured Alex Silvagni.

Leigh Fisher was superb through the midfield for the Scorpions, as was Jarryn Geary and the silky David Armitage.

The underrated Evan Panozza also played an important role in the match, doing the one-percenters that coaches love to see.

After Saturday's loss the Scorpions sit in fifth place on the Victorian Football League ladder.

Their chances of a final four finish are not dashed, as fourth-placed Werribee takes on the powerhouse Williamstown.

Provided the Scorpions defeat Collingwood, finishing fourth will be a distinct possibility.