YOU can always expect fireworks when traditional rivals Boisdale-Briagolong and Stratford meet.
Round 1 added a little bit extra to the battle of the Avon, as each side wanted early bragging rights in East Gippsland football.
Coming off premiership success in 2022, Stratford could be excused for a bit of a hangover and lessened preparation. Boisdale-Briagolong, in contrast, with some quality names added to their side together and a big pre-season, looked very strong.
Going into the game, both sides were without some notable inclusions.
Stratford was missing Jack Bacon, Reg Tait, Haydn Erfuth and Gavin Bickery, who are all set to play at some stage of the 2023 EGFNL season.
Boisdale-Briagolong was without Kel Porter, Brendon Rathnow, Paddy Mack and David Mckean.
Goals flowed in the first quarter at Boisdale Recreation Reserve on Saturday – a total of 10 kicked between the two sides.
The Bombers went into the quarter time break nine points up.
Stratford welcomed back Lachlan Channing, and he slotted in nicely, kicking two goals, while Ben Wilkinson kicked the first of what would become six for the day.
Boisdale-Briagolong extended their lead to 26 points at the main break. Their relentless pressure was a main contributor to the Swans’ turnovers, which cost them dearly throughout the game.
With an injury to Stratford playing-coach Jarryd Clohesy during the second term, the Swans had a challenge waiting for them in the second half.
Stratford forward Rodney O’Keefe kicked the first goal, but Boisdale-Briagolong responded with the next two. The Bombers outscored Stratford by just over four goals in the third quarter, taking a 51-point lead into the final term.
The effects of a hard Round 1 hit out were shown, with several players cramping in the last quarter.
Boisdale-Briagolong finished on top at the final siren, 17.13 (115) to 11.7 (73).
Boisdale-Briagolong coach Sam Bedggood was understandably happy with the result.
“The most pleasing thing was to see the boys respond each time Stratty came at us,” he said.
“They got the jump in each quarter with the first couple of goals, but we were able to wrestle the momentum back and get on top.”
Bedggood noted that with a lot of new faces, it will take time before they are at their best. A first-round win against the defending premier, means the Bombers look like a side to watch this year.
Clohesy’s post-game speech to his players was all about the positives.
While a seven-goal loss isn’t an ideal start to going for back-to-back flags, Clohesy is still positive about the year to come.
IN other games, Paynesville caused a boil-over, with a 12 point win over Lindenow.
Wy Yung extended their lead at each break to finish 65 points clear of Lucknow, and Orbost Snowy Rovers survived a second term comeback from Lakes Entrance to win by 85 points.
