The Tigers escaped with full points in their first hit-out for 2025 after being up for the majority of the game.
It was the Swans’ last ditch effort to get over the top of the Tigers that almost snatched the game away from Rushworth, but they managed to keep their head to record a 39-38 victory.
Rushworth A-grade coach Sheree Starling mused about her side’s opening contest and was ultimately happy with the outcome despite it being a closer game than was necessary.
“We started really well and were confident even though we hadn’t played together as a full team,” she said.
“We dropped the intensity and got a bit lazy, which allowed Avenel to get back into the game, it probably should’ve been a stronger win.
“I thought the girls gelled well together, and we led for 95% of the game, it wasn't until the last five minutes that Avenel got up.
“In saying that, we could have easily dropped our heads, but we hung in there and stuck with it to get away with the win.”
Starling analysed her team’s performance and, while there is plenty of room for growth, was satisfied with the way her side went about it.
“There is a lot to work on, that’s the beauty of it that despite putting in a good effort that we still have room for improvement,” she said.
“Part of it is learning how we play together, and it was a tough game in the heat, so I’m proud of the girls for their efforts.
“Ash Materne was fantastic and the number of gains she got for us was crucial even though she turned it over a little bit.
“It was the first game, so I am expecting that to improve with each match across the season.
“A win is a win in our books, whether it be by one or 15, our defence is looking strong in the ring, we just need to tighten up through the mid-court and convert more goals.
“We are feeling good as a unit and get along well, so we are happy at the moment.”
Girgarre v Merrigum
The Kangaroos made it two from two after decimating the Bulldogs to stamp themselves as prohibitive flag favourites for 2025.
The contest was similar to it’s round one meeting against Murchison-Toolamba in which they won by a strong margin, recording a 45-goal victory in round two.
The final score was 63-18 in favour of the Kanagroos who are now in second on the ladder behind Shepparton East, with just percentage splitting the two.
After a well-earned rest this weekend, Girgarre will gear up for a 2024 flag rematch with Lancaster in round three away from home.
Stanhope v Murchison-Toolamba
The Lions notched their first win of the season after a loss to Tallygaroopna last week, bouncing back to slay the Grasshoppers at home.
The eight-goal win was a farcry from its first outing, and the turn around will spark some confidence in a side looking to contend in 2025.
The final score was 41-33 and propels Stanhope into just outside the finals mix with plenty of time to climb the standings.
Stanhope will have another crack to improves it record in round three, where it battles Merrigum away.
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