Gisborne coach Clinton Young could not have asked for any more from his charges in the opening round of the Bendigo Football League season.
The Bulldogs dominated from the opening bounce on their way to a 18.9 (117)-6.8 (44) win against Kangaroo Flat.
Young was thrilled to start his coaching career in such a fashion.
“It was a bit unknown with the weather but it opened up a bit and it was good to start the way we did,” he said.
“We had a good margin and output at half-time and I was pleased with the way everyone played after doing the hard work during the pre-season.
“Nothing changed all day and the boys were well prepared. As my first game as coach it was a bit seamless.”
The Bulldogs had 11 players get on the scoreboard with Jack Scanlon and Jaidyn Owen kicking three goals each. Young said it was a real team effort across the board.
“Everyone was focused on playing their own roles. Jack Reaper playing centre half-back dominated, but after that we could have had 10 to 15 other players named in the best.
“Everyone played a good game.”
Callum Williamson made his senior debut after rising through the ranks, while Ross Celano, who is part of Footscray’s VFL side, made his debut.
Young was forced to coach from the sidelines as he recovers from injury.
“I’m out for a few more weeks,” he said.
“I had a setback. It might have been a blessing in disguise to be able to get the coaching part down pat and then get back out onto the field.”
On Saturday, the Bulldogs will get an idea about how much they have improved in the off season when they face last year’s premiers Strathfieldsaye.
Young said they were looking forward to the contest.
“It’s a good challenge and we can see where we are at.”
Kyneton started its season with a thriller against South Bendigo.
In a low scoring affair, the two teams had to settle for a draw, both finishing 5.10 (40).
Max O’Sullivan and Jack Exell kicked two goals each for the Tigers, while Harrison Huntley was named the Tigers’ best.
In netball, Gisborne defeated Kangaroo Flat 47-34 in the A-grade competition.
Kyneton’s top side, which is playing in A-reserve, lost by four goals.
Tara Murray
