MAGPIES, CATS, SHARKS & DEVILS SCORE ROUND 1 WINS
By PADDY GRINDLAY
With the threat of lockdowns and the pandemic somewhat lessoned after two years, Division 2 football returned with a newfound energy over the weekend as the competition looks forward with anticipation to an uninterrupted season of football.
Wyndhamvale and Parkside ended the unfinished 2021 season in first and second place respectively on the ladder: it was only right that the Eagles and Magpies opened the season in Wyndhamvale on a wintery Saturday afternoon.
In a remarkable match affected by blustery conditions, the Falcons leapt out to an early lead and, despite being pegged back by the Pies in the second term, maintained a 25-point margin going into the final term.
Parkside, led by Jackson Barrett and Michael Jubb, stormed back into the lead with a dominant nine-goal quarter, running over Wyndhamvale in a 51-point turn around to win 13.14. (92) to 10.6. (66).
Alex Hamilton booted three for the home side with Mackenzie Parker performing well, while Jy Lambley kicked three goals for the Magpies.
A trip to Albion is next for Parkside, with the Cats fresh off a 117-point drubbing of West Footscray at Shorten Reserve.
Lee Campbell battled manfully for the Roosters, kicking four of his side’s eight goals.
Wyndhamvale will stay at home and face the Point Cook Centrals, who accounted for Glen Orden off the back of a seven-goal opening quarter, in which the Hawks were held goal-less.
The Centrals established an early 46-point lead and were never headed, running out 32-point winners with Mitch Palma impressing with two goals and plenty of presence.
Aaron Law booted four goals in a losing effort, while Daniel Rosenzweig continued his goalkicking form of yesteryear with three.
North Footscray also opened their season with a win, holding off a fast-finishing Newport by 13-points. Charles Bettiol booted four majors.
Newport and West Footscray will get a chance to break their ducks next week at Langshaw Reserve, while Glen Orden will host North Footscray.