By Tara Murray
Diggers Rest passed its first test of the Riddell District Football League season, beating newcomers Melton South on Saturday.
It was a bit of an unknown for the Burras heading into Saturday’s clash, with the Panthers returning from the Ballarat league this season. The Panthers haven’t had a win in a few years.
The Burras led all day in the contest as they came away with a 17.9 (111)-7.7 (49).
New Burras coach Shaun Campbell said it was a bit of an unknown heading into the game.
“It’s good to get the monkey off the back,” he said. “It was a little bit different [having a new opponent].
“We were mainly worried about ourselves to be fair. We knew their good players and had put a little bit into them.
“We were more worried about our structures and execution. Next time we’ll be more prepared.”
Campbell, who has also been named co-captain with Jaidyn Caruana, said they were really happy with how they executed the game plan and how they went about it.
He said with seven new faces in the team it was about trying to find those connections.
“We were happy, but the extra time in the quarters we weren’t used to,” he said. “The majority of players haven’t played with the longer quarters and it was a lot hotter day.”
Campbell said they would look to build as the season goes along with the new group.
He said they wanted to add some more talent to the squad after last season.
“I was pretty lucky to get a few new players in,” he said. “Some wanted to come and play with friends.
“It’s more than the club is used to welcoming in. We went out in straight sets last year so we wanted some extra top end talent.
“We know the depth has been there with the reserves having so much success. We’re in a good spot.”
For the Panthers, Sam Hurst, Sam Darley and Mitch Fino were named their best.
The Burras will face Romsey this week, in what will be a good test of where they are.
“They haven’t changed too much,” Campbell said. “They’ve got Jack Jedwab back full time.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge.”
The Panthers will face Melton Centrals this Saturday in the first local derby.
In other matches, Melton Centrals started the season with a loss under lights against Woodend-Hesket.
The Hawks led all game and were able to hold off the Centrals to win, 9.12 (66)-7.8 (50).
Bradley Layton kicked three goals for Centrals.
Evan Donoghue, Dylan McDonald and Hisham Kerbatieh were named their best.
Gisborne Giants first senior game ended with a big loss to Kyneton, losing 21.15 (141)-4.7 (31).
Tigers coach Ethan Foreman kicked seven goals in the win.
Joshua Lee was named the Giants best.
Romsey had a big win against Lancefield, while Riddell started its premiership defence with a win against Macedon.
