Panthers, Saints flex muscle in Division 1

Old Mentonians inflicted physical and mental damage to Brunswick NOBSPC in their opener at Keysborough Playing Fields as they stormed home to win by 152 points. A monstrous eleven-goal opening term ultimately put a line through NOBS’ chances by the first break in play as the Panthers asserted their dominance in every position across the ground. Dustan Mills was the main recipient in front of goal as the Big V representative bagged eight majors alongside Luke Hull (six) and Darcy Brown (five). The 25-goal victory gives the Panthers a Round One percentage of 461.9%, while NOBS linger in last position on 21.65%.

Ivanhoe proved they are up to the task of performing in Division 1 this season, with a commanding 33-point victory against PEGS at PEGS Sporting Fields. Mitch Lovell dominated in front of goal with four majors to his name, while Zac Mowat, Edward Robinson and Karl Kaldawi registered three each. Trent Skurrie played a lone hand for PEGS on his way to four goals.

Prahran Assumption and Old Paradians took no time to record the first tie of the VAFA season as both sides finished the game 85-85 at Toorak Park. With just two points separating the sides at half time, the Raiders kicked six goals to three in the third to give themselves a 12-point buffer with one quarter remaining. However, the momentum took another swing as the Two Blues refused to give up and drew level with three of their own in an enthralling final term. John Robbins was at it again for the Two Blues, doing as he pleased up forward and running out the game with four majors. At the other end, Luke McCann booted five for the reigning Division 2 premiers.

St Mary’s Salesian commenced their campaign for the 2016 flag in style as they ran over Whitefriars to the tune of 40 points at Ferndale Park. Second year Saint, Gary Puruntatameri, proved the difference in a standout performance which resulted in six goals. Former St John’s star, Carson Strobel, did his share of damage throughout the Saints’ midfield, while Ciaran Hickey stood tall for the Friars with five goals.

Therry Penola produced a stunning one-point come-from-behind victory in their first match-up back in Division 1 against Old Geelong at John Pascoe Fawkner Reserve. Trailing the OGs by 21 points at three quarter time, Therry piled on five goals to one in a frantic final term to scrape over the line in the dying minutes. Jarrod Egglestone dominated in a best-on-ground performance for Therry, while Jack McMeel kicked five for the losing side.