PREMIERS Sunbury Lions did not exactly take off on Saturday with the same speed that saw them claim last year’s Ballarat Football League title.
But they still managed to show glimpses of dominance in their win over Melton.
The Lions hosted the Bloods at Clarke Oval and set up their 64-point win with a third-quarter blitz.
After a slow first quarter where both sides failed to seize opportunities, the Lions kicked into gear and sent out a message that they will again be a force to be reckoned with this year.
The Eastern Lions eventually won 18.16 (124) to 8.12 (60).
Despite the lopsided scoreboard, Melton showed definite signs of improvement before conceding the final four goals of the match.
Sunbury coach Rick Horwood was pleased by individual efforts from players in all areas.
Brett Chambers and Niall McGovern were stoic in defence, Pat Cariss dominated in the ruck as expected before moving forward, and small forwards Xavier Linton and Matthew Medcraft popped up to boot seven goals between them.
“The cream rose to the top in that third quarter,” Horwood said.
Sunbury turns its attention to Darley next week, while Melton has a chance to regroup with a second round bye.
– Ballarat Courier
BALLARAT FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Sunbury Lions 18.16 (124) d Melton 8.12 (60)
Sunbury Lions – goals: X. Linton 4, M. Medcraft, R.Wood 3, J. Lobb 2, S. Clarke, P. Cariss, J. Fedoruk, C. McCabe, A. Duhau, J. Rizk. Best: B. Chambers, N. McGovern, M. Coleman, A. Duhau, X. Linton, A. Short
Melton – goals: M. Notman 2, P. Davis, J. Gleeson, H. Abela, D. Haby, B. Kight, J. Miller. Best: Coleman, A. Duhau, X. Linton, A. Short
