Pitted against reigning Murray League premier Congupna at Lancaster, two of the shining lights for Kyabram were young talent Archie Watt and the experienced Tom Holman.
In an on-ball role, Watt was Kyabram’s best player and kicked goals going forward while Holman, returning after a season with Moama, presented at every chance in attack.
Holman also hit the scoreboard a couple of times in an encouraging display in a low-scoring clash.
Lancaster recruit Zac Cerrone also did impressive work in the Bombers’ forward half.
With the departure of prolific goalkickers in Kayne Pettifer and Kyle Mueller in the past two years and Anthony Depasquale this season, the Bombers have to find ways to bolster their goalkicking power, and the efforts of Watt and Holman in particular were encouraging signs.
Congupna put to it to the Bombers with its aerial strength and hard running, and was only three goals down at the end of the three-periods clash.
But Ky co-coach Corey Carver was happy with his charges in their first hit-out for the season.
Another bonus for Kyabram was the impressive form of Morrison medallist Mick Mattingly, who missed most of last season, and the return of ruck ace Zac Norris and the form of rising star Bohden Learmonth, who, along with established players in Jake Parkinson and Eamonn Ogden, showed out.
The Bombers were well below full strength, with key defender Jason Morgan, Brad Whitford, Riley Ironside, Jake Torney and star Murray League recruits Jack Russell, Coby McCarthy and Jack Sheldon all missing.
Most of these players are expected to return this Saturday when Kyabram lines up against Bendigo League side Golden Square at Elmore.
There are expected to be three games: thirds at 10am, reserves at noon and seniors at 2pm.
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