South Morang gets up in a thriller

Jesse Owens-Draper is tackled by James Hewson. Picture Mark Wilson

Just eight goals were scored in a low-scoring thriller between South Morang and Mernda in Northern Football League division 3.

In tough conditions, the Lions that pulled off a minor upset by beating a Demons outfit that had looked good in round one.

The Lions kicked the only two goals of the opening quarter and that proved to be the difference.

The Lions were able to hold onto the lead all day, holding off the Demons and winning 4.7 (31)-4.5 (29).

Mernda’s Josh Delaney was the only player to kick multiple goals.

Matthew Trim, who kicked one goal for the Lions, was named his side’s best, while Anthony Volpe was named the Demons’ best.

Lalor found the going tougher than in week one, losing to St Mary’s 11.19 (85)-5.8 (38).

Lauirmar, in its first game of the season after a bye in round one, lost to Panton Hill, 14.8 (92)-7.8 (50).

In division 1, Bundoora kicked off its premiership defence in fine fashion with a 41-point win against Northcote Park under lights on Friday night.

After an even first quarter, the Bulls kicked away for a 19.10 (124)-13.5 (83).

Veteran Gary Moorcroft shows no signs of slowing down, kicking six goals for the Bulls.

Andrew Sturgess was named best on ground.

Whittlesea also started its season by winning a nail biter-against Heidelberg  on Saturday.

In the low-scoring match, the Eagles won 6.10 (46)-6.8 (44).

Jaron Murphy and Andrew Fairchild kicked two goals each for the Eagles.

In division 2, Thomastown and Epping had tough starts to the season.

The Bears lost to Lower Plenty 7.15 (57)-4.5 (29), while the promoted Pingers lost to Eltham 9.12 (66)-2.7 (19).