Werribee has enjoyed a season opener to savour in the Hockey Victoria women’s Vic League 1.
The promoted Tigers’ first-up win on Saturday perfectly complemented the proud unfurling of their premiership flag.
Tigers coach Les McAlinden said it all made for a memorable and moving day.
“It’s always a good moment when you see the flag go up in the air from the previous year,” he said.
“It puts something in the heart and if it didn’t you wouldn’t be playing the sport.”
Werribee did not miss a beat offensively in a 5-4 take-down of Casey at President’s Park.
The Tigers were lethal in and around the attacking circle and had too much firepower for the visitors.
“Casey finished in the four last year, so it was a good win from our girls,” McAlinden said.
“We had a few out too, so we’re looking good.”
The Tigers had five individual goalscorers – Caitlin Spence, Lisa Ross, Holly Stewart, Catherine Munro and Sue Jones.
There was some rust for the Tigers, a couple of defensive lapses gifting goals to Casey, but it was a largely positive opening game.
“There were a few mistakes from us that led to them capitalising,” McAlinden said.
“Apart from that, we played really good all over the field. Our forwards gelled really well.”
McAlinden was not surprised by the hot start. He witnessed the hard work the Werribee players put in over the summer to prepare for the new season.
The Tigers were superbly led by new captain Jenna Howley, a homegrown talent who has risen through the ranks.
“I’ve been coaching Jenna since she was 13,” McAlinden said.
“She’s grown from a young girl to a young woman and, now, to having a family of her own. It was really impressive to see her lead the team out.”
The Tigers will be out to maintain the rage when they visit Mornington Peninsula on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Werribee went down 2-1 to Bayside in the men’s Vic League 2 season opener at President’s Park.
Jamie Beamish was the lone goalscorer for the Tigers.
The Tigers will go in search of a first win when they travel to play Greater Dandenong Warriors on Saturday.
