With the 2022 Goulburn Valley League flag hanging from the rafters at Victoria Park, Echuca began its premiership defence in style with a big win over Tatura in the season opener.
The Murray Bombers had 12 individual goal-kickers en route to a round one rout of the Bulldogs, with a big crowd in to see Echuca run away with a comprehensive 98-point win.
After taking a 14-point lead into the first break, the reigning premiers put the foot down in the second quarter to lay the groundwork for the 19.15 (129) to 5.1 (31) victory, booting seven goals to one to take a 54-point lead into half-time.
Tatura responded by booting two goals and keeping Echuca goalless in the third term, but an eight-goal to no score final term headlined a clinical performance for the home side.
Hugh Evans led the way with four majors in an onslaught of goal-kickers for Echuca, while Sam Willoughby and Sam Reid headlined the best players.
The experienced Chris Ryan toiled hard for the Bulldogs alongside Dan Weetra and Mitchell Elliott, but new coach Paul Barnard will be looking to move on swiftly with a clash against Mansfield on the horizon.
Meanwhile, Echuca will be hoping to make it two on the spin when they tackle rivals Kyabram in what is poised to be a big clash on the Bombers’ home turf next Saturday.
Around the GVL, Seymour was pushed by a gallant Benalla, but nonetheless walked away with a 21-point win.
Shepparton United picked up a 19-point win over Shepparton Bears in the derby at Deakin Reserve, while Rochester fell to Kyabram by 38 points at Moon Oval.
Euroa and Mansfield played out a thriller, with the Magpies snatching a one-goal win, while Mooroopna opened its 2023 with a 34-point victory over Shepparton Swans.
The Game
Echuca 4.3, 11.7, 11.10, 19.15 (129)
Tatura 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, 5.1 (31)
Goals
Echuca Hugh Evans 4, Corbin Anderson, Will Monahan, Sam Reid, Liam Tenace 2, Jack Evans, Matt Lias, Kane Morris, Callum Parsons, Curt Townrow, Mitch Wales, Sam Willoughby
Tatura James Bennett, Jacob Chessells, Harry Murdoch, Tim Wilson, Unknown.
Best
Echuca Sam Willoughby, Samuel Reid, Matthew Lias, Andrew Walker, Will Monahan.
Tatura Chris Ryan, Daniel Weetra, Mitchell Elliott, Brodie Meyers, Matt Rennie