By David Nagel
Round-one winners Tooradin-Dalmore and Kooweerup will lock horns in a highly-anticipated clash of the local rivals in West Gippsland football this Saturday.
The Seagulls could hardly have been more impressive, out-running and out-gunning Cora Lynn with the last six goals of their contest.
But while the attacking nature of their finish was superb, coach Jordan Kelly was equally as impressed with his team’s ability to nullify the Cobras when momentum was on their side.
“We spoke about when you play these quality opponents that they’re going to have their turn, because they are quality, and we wanted to ride that out and then things would swing our way,” he said.
“That was a real positive, that there was no panic within the group.
“We stayed calm and had good belief in our system and things eventually came good.
“That was the most pleasing part, for the boys to hold their heads and then persist with our brand of footy.”
Kooweerup’s win was built on blood and guts determination after a slow start on their visit to Dalyston.
The Demons looked a different unit with Josiah Farrer a focal point in attack and Billy Rolfe and Josh Bateman providing plenty of class around the packs.
The Demons look to have improved, but the Seagulls superior depth will lead to a 23-point victory.
Nar Nar Goon will be too good for Dalyston at home, while Inverloch-Kongwak will kick off its 2025 campaign with a big win over Korumburra-Bena.
The clash between Garfield and Phillip Island could be interesting, with the Stars clearly improved and the Bulldogs short of their best on day one of the season.
Mitch Johnson and Eddie Morris have stiffened the Stars resolve, but the Bulldogs will find a way.
And Kilcunda-Bass hosts Warragul Industrials in the intriguing match-up of round two.
Balancing the form lines is almost impossible, but we’ll go the Panthers to make it a perfect start to the season with a hard-fought eight-point win.
