Long-time rivals Romsey and Lancefield opened their 2026 Riddell League football campaigns on Saturday with a match of contrasting halves.
The first half developed into a virtual stalemate, with plenty of effort but little reward.
At the long break the Redbacks were leading 3.4 to 2.6, with both sides looking to find a way to take control and put goals on the board.
The Redbacks analysed the situation and reached the conclusion they had to restore their structure, apply pressure and play according to the conditions.
The large crowd had hoped threatening rain would not spoil proceedings, and the overall tempo shifted in favour of the home side as the third term unfolded.
While the Tigers continued to battle hard, the Redbacks lifted in confidence with some improved teamwork paying dividends.
Captain Jack Jedwab’s long angle goal after the third quarter siren extended the Romsey lead to 16 points, and coach Nathan Blair urged his charges to press home their advantage.
Largely monopolising the ball, the Redbacks kicked sufficient goals to guarantee victory, and it was only a late flurry from the Tigers that cut the final margin.
Tempers flared very late as siren time approached, with some undisciplined contacts made.
This Saturday the Redbacks now face a real test on the Gisborne Giants ground at New Gisborne, where they have not played before.
Lancefield has the task of trying to combat a visiting Macedon side at Tigerland, and some players should certainly benefit by the Romsey experience.
The final scores were 10.15 (75) to 7.2 (44).
Redbacks’ best players included veteran Nathan Rayment, the dependable Corey Pertzel, Matthew Milburn, up-and-coming youngster Judd Rademaker, Jedwab and Darcy Peavey.
Rayment and Jedwab each came up with four goals.
The Tigers did not have their ‘best’ listed.
Earlier, the switched-on Lancefield Reserves delighted their supporters with an emphatic eight-goal victory.
In the early match Romsey Under 19.5s were too strong, despite kicking only five goals from 25 scoring shots to win by 35 points.
BOMBERS TO APPEAR
Reigning premiers Riddell play their first match for this season on Saturday at Diggers Rest.
The Bombers appear to have the depth to be certain finalists again, while Diggers Rest decimated Melton South by 75 points on Saturday, and have recruited strongly.
Darcy Lockens, one of Romsey’s very talented and younger players, has transferred to play with Riddell this season.
Wallan was the other side to make district footy followers sit up and take notice, outclassing Melton Centrals by 71 points.
The Magpies included seven first-gamers in their lineup, and their performance at Woodend this Saturday will be watched with interest by several other finals aspirants.
Kyneton has the bye on Saturday and play their second match for the season at Lancefield on Anzac Day.
