Seaford teenager Tim Smith made an impressive debut for the Casey Scorpions on the weekend. Picture: Stewart Chambers

THE Casey Scorpions’ 29-point loss to North Ballarat on Saturday was forgettable in many ways. 

But debutant Tim Smith’s dazzling performance may have given Scorpions’ coaches something to salvage from the wreckage.

By Marc McGowan Star News

Smith, 18, amassed 15 kicks and two handballs and had a hand in several Casey goals, but it was his breathtaking speed that made him an instant fan favourite.

 He joined defender Gareth Snow and Gippsland Power midfielder Russell Lehman, the 23rd man, on debut.

 Scorpions football manager Craig Lees described Smith as ‘a beauty’, while coach Peter German envisions nothing but upside for the Seaford teenager. 

“He’s been a bit up and down, but mainly because he’s just come from local footy,” German said after Saturday’s game.

 “If you tracked his football progress from where he’s come from you can understand why he’s been up and down.  

“He’s only been a local player and all of a sudden he’s come to a semi-professional footy club, where they’re asking for him to train three nights a week and train at 100 miles an hour. 

 “He’s been trying to get his head around that, but I think today showed that he has got some unique abilities in his game.”