Back-to-back Kyabram District Football League premier Lancaster has unearthed another young gun gem.
The Wombats continued their hunt for a third successive premiership with a thrashing of Rushworth on Saturday afternoon in round three.
Lancaster kicked at least six goals each quarter, defeating the Tigers by 166 points, 30.17 (197) to 5.3 (33).
At home, the Wombats’ potent forward line was on display for all to see as three players kicked six or more goals, highlighted by the work of captain Charlie McLay, who finished the match with 10.
Lancaster coach Tom Davies praised his new-look forward line, especially the work of Declan Hallett, who slotted seven goals on his senior debut.
“From round one, we have had a bit of personnel change down forward with a few injuries, so we put Charlie McLay down there, our captain, to offer a target, which he has been doing,” Davies said.
“He (McLay) cashed in yesterday.
“Zac Cerrone kicked six as a usual goal-kicker and then Declan Hallett kicked seven on debut, which was good and gave us another avenue to goal.
“He (Hallett) played a year at Ky thirds last year and then he came and played a game in the thirds for us this year and then we decided to bring him up this week and he went pretty well.”
Three rounds into the season, Lancaster sits on top of the ladder, undefeated, with victories over Stanhope, Shepparton East and Rushworth.
After an imposing start to its premiership defence, Davies noted the work of less heralded players who have emerged from the shadows in the opening few rounds.
“We brought Nic Kellow (midfielder-forward) into the side this year,’’ he said.
“He is from Elmore way and has settled in pretty well.
“It was his best game yesterday and he has played pretty well so far.
“We have had a few young kids come in and get an opportunity this year, so it’s good to see them step up and play some good footy.”
In other games, Avenel defeated Tallygaroopna in a thriller by one point at home, 12.12 (84) to 13.5 (83).
After Tally got off to a strong start (they led 28-7 at quarter-time), the Swans clawed their way back in the second quarter and from there the sides could barely be split.
Avenel’s Braydon Avola was awarded best-on-ground honours for his side, while Tally forward Brent Arho kicked six goals for the visitors.
Shepparton East is back on the winners’ list after an utter domination of Girgarre away from home.
The Eagles had 35 scoring shots to the Kangaroos’ three as Dwain Vidler’s side won the match 25.12 (162) to 1.2 (8).
Nagambie claimed its second victory of the season with a 46-point win over Longwood.
Lakers forward Jonathan Moore was electric for his side, booting eight goals.
Violet Town has secured its first victory of the season with a 40-point win over Undera.
Away from home, Violet Town had nearly won the match at half-time when it led 87-22 before the Lions fought back to finish the game 11.11 (77) to 18.9 (117).
Stanhope defeated Dookie United 16.13 (109) to 5.8 (38), with Lions forwards Daniel Flynn (six goals) and Rhys Smith (five) dangerous in attack.
Results from the lone Sunday match between Merrigum and Murchison-Toolamba were unavailable at the time of print.