MPNFL
DIVISION ONE
LANGWARRIN received a harsh introduction to the top division last Saturday.
Division one premiers Frankston YCW played Langwarrin at Lloyd Park. Langwarrin went all of 2022 without defeat, but faced a significant challenge in the Stonecats in their 2023 season opener.
Frankston YCW put Langwarrin to the sword. The Kangaroos only kicked five goals all day, and were defeated 5.7 (37) to 14.13 (97).
Josh Patullo and Christian Tsiampas both kicked four goals for the Stonecats. Luca Goonan also impressed.
Some poor goalkicking saved Pines from a huge defeat against Mt Eliza last Saturday.
Mt Eliza led Pines by a goal at half-time. The Redlegs piled on the pressure in the second half, but failed to make the Pythons pay on the scoreboard.
Mt Eliza kicked 5.20 (50) for the afternoon. Although it should have been by more they still managed to defeat Pines, who scored just 3.4 (22).
A fast start secured Frankston Bombers a good win over Bonbeach in their season opener.
The Bombers booted six goals to two in a first-quarter blitz. Bonbeach wasn’t able to get back in the contest.
The Bombers kept the Sharks at arm’s reach, and eventually ran out 9.7 (61) to 14.9 (93) winners.
Khan Haretuku and Lachlan Robinson scored three goals each for the victors. Harrison Prior was named best on ground.
DIVISION TWO
A SERIOUS injury forced the season opener between Karingal and Mornington to be abandoned last Saturday.
Play was halted in the second quarter after a serious injury to Bulls player Reuben Hanson.
Karingal shared an update on Hanson after the game. He was taken to hospital by ambulance, and was diagnosed with a broken collarbone. He avoided any other major damage.
The club says Hanson is expected to miss up to eight weeks.
Devon Meadows sent a statement to the rest of the competition with a big win over Pearcedale on Saturday.
It was a dream start to the season for Devon Meadows. They debuted star signing Paddy Ryder in front of their home crowd, and dispatched Pearcedale with ease.
Pearcedale, who welcomed former Collingwood and Brisbane Lions star Dayne Beams to the side for the first time, didn’t score a goal until after three-quarter-time. They ended up succumbing to a comprehensive 14.15 (99) to 5.7 (37) defeat.
Dean Kent was among Devon Meadows’ best. Ryder also played well.
Hastings also secured a comfortable win to start their 2023 season in style. They defeated Seaford by 53 points – 14.10 (94) to 5.11 (41).
Crib Point had a good day at home on Saturday. They overcame a poor start to upset Somerville.
The Magpies scored just one behind during a cagey opening quarter. They scored five goals in the second quarter to get back on top.
Wayward kicking ended up costing Somerville. They scored one goal and six behinds in the final term.
Crib Point emerged from the hard-fought contest victorious – 10.6 (66) to 6.13 (49). Warwick Miller booted four goals for Crib Point.
Round one concludes this Friday. Chelsea hosts Edithvale-Aspendale, and Tyabb will host Rye.