MPNFL
DIVISION ONE
IT was a day of celebration for Frankston YCW on Saturday, as they started their season with a gritty come-from-behind win over Bonbeach.
The two sides got the 2022 season underway with an entertaining clash at Bonbeach Reserve.
The Stonecats proved to be the stronger side on the day after a slow start. They ended up taking the game by 14 points – 11.9 (75) to 14.5 (89).
The day will also be remembered for the return of Frankston YCW’s Dylan Roberton to the football field. The former St Kilda defender made a welcome return after retiring from the AFL last year because of health issues.
Two Division One matches were played on Saturday to kick off the season. The other matchup saw Mt Eliza host Frankston Bombers at Emil Madsen Reserve.
Both sides had troubles in front of goal all afternoon, but Frankston Bombers managed to come out on top. The Bombers won 5.12 (42) to 8.14 (62).
DIVISION TWO
SOMERVILLE were the big winners in the opening round of the MPNFL season, claiming a thumping victory over Hastings.
It was a goal-fest at Somerville’s home ground on Saturday. Somerville booted 22 goals for the day, securing them a 79 point win over the Blues.
Ryan Gillis starred for Somerville. He booted seven goals. Daniel Marshall contributed four majors to the scoreboard and Lachlan Sharp kicked three.
The final score read Somerville 22.12 (144) to Hastings 10.5 (65).
Langwarrin also got their season started on the right foot. They got the better of Seaford at RF Miles Reserve.
Langwarrin will be hoping for a big year. They finished last year’s COVID-interrupted season on top of the ladder, and will be looking to replicate those efforts.
Seaford struggled to match the Kangaroos on Saturday. Langwarrin ended up winning comfortably 7.6 (48) to 12.16 (88).
Zach Andrewartha kicked three goals for the winning side, and former Essendon Bomber Mark Baguley kicked two.
Chelsea also notched up a win in their opening game of the season. They defeated Crib Point 7.10 (52) to 9.15 (69).
The final game of the opening round saw Devon Meadows and Pearcedale take each other on.
Devon Meadows had opportunities in front of their home crowd, but failed to convert their chances. Pearcedale took advantage to claim an 8.13 (61) to 12.11 (83) win.
First published in the Mornington News – 5 April 2022
