Box Hill Hawks have opened the season on a positive note, defeating the reigning premiers Footscray in the first Peter Jackson VFL Good Friday clash.
The Hawks won 15.5 (95) defeating Footscray 14.9 (93).
The Hawks led by 22 points early in the third term, before Footscray kicked five of the next seven goals to enter the final term full of momentum with a four-point lead. This was extended to 10 points as Pat Lipinski kicked his fourth early in the last, as the home side looked like they would run away with the game.
The Hawks however started to find targets up forward, with a run of four goals from Chris jones, Jack Fitzpatrick, Kade Stewart and Dallas Willsmore helping the visitors race out to a 14-point lead 25 minutes into the final term. The Bulldogs were not done with, kicking two late goals, but the Hawks had done enough for a thrilling two-point win.
Sam Switkowski and Jones kicked three each for the Hawks, while Pat Lipinksi kicked four, and Fergus Greene three for the Bulldogs.
Round 1 continues Saturday with Sandringham hosting Essendon and Coburg facing Collingwood in the first Channel 7 broadcast game for 2017.
On Sunday, Richmond plays North Ballarat at Punt Road Oval while Werribee and Geelong meet in Torquay.
Rounding out the Easter long weekend will be Williamstown and Casey at Burbank Oval on Easter Monday - live on Casey Radio.
CLICK HERE for best and goals for Footscray v Box Hill Hawks
CLICK HERE for Season Preview of each club
CLICK HERE for Round 1 teams
Photo: Jenny Owens
Last Modified on 14/04/2017 23:13