By CONNOR PAIN - Division 1 Reserves
THERE is arguably no other feeling greater than unfurling a premiership flag in front of your home fans.
For the Hoppers Crossing faithful, they were given an encore performance after the Warriors easily dispatched St. Albans in a 12.23 (83) to 4.2 (26) win.
The game started slowly, as both teams were finding their way back into form after the long off-season. Much of the first quarter was played in the midfield, with neither side able to take over the game.
The home side flexed its muscles in the second quarter, seizing control of play through forward pressure and a relentless attack on goal to open up a sizeable 42-point lead at half time.
A lack of concentration and turnovers hurt St. Albans all day, as they often lead to scores for Hoppers Crossing.
Inaccuracy in front of goal (as well as several rushed behinds) stopped the final score from increasing, something the visitors will aim to address in the coming weeks.
Round two sees the Warriors travel away to face Deer Park, while St. Albans will look to grab its first win of 2016 against Spotswood.
The Lions stunned last year’s grand finalist Sunshine with a four goal final term to get over the line by just eight points.
The Kangaroos started the better of the two sides, racing out to an early three goal lead, however over the course of the second and third quarters Deer Park hit back and kept the score line close going into the last term.
The home side could not maintain its advantage and were overrun, a disappointing result in its season’s opening matchup.
Marc Bullen competition high four goals helped lead the Lions in the 10.12. (72) to 9.6. (60) victory.
Sunshine will look to bounce back today against Albion.
The Cats got its 2016 campaign off to a roaring start with an 11.10. (76) to 5.8. (38) win over newcomers Wyndhamvale.
The game was within reach for either side up until three quarter-time, with no quarter time lead being above 15-points.
Five goals in the last quarter sealed the game for Albion, which gives them half as many wins as they had all of last season.
For the new team on the block, the Werribee Districts are its next opponent in Round two.
The Districts again look a strong contender this year with a comfortable 16-point win over Altona.
The visitors led at each break, yet five goals in the final term for the Vikings kept the game interesting.
Last Modified on 11/04/2016 17:03