Deer Park’s bigger bodies and greater experience players got the Lions over the line in the division 1 match with Werribee Districts on Saturday.
In a clash at John McLeod Oval between the defending premiers and the new side in the competition, the result flattered the Lions who won 24.16 (160) to 10.11 (71).
Lions President Mark McGoldrick said it was a pleasing result.
PICTURE GALLERY: Deer Park v Werribee Districts
“I thought the opposition was very competitive and the game was of a high standard,” he said.
“Our coach [Marc Bullen] was into the players before the game saying we were playing against the unknown.
“I think the scoreboard flattered us. In the end we capitalised better on their mistakes.
“In the last 7-8 minutes of each quarter we were able to kick late goals and run out the quarters.”
He said the Lions’ forwards were really damaging.
“Former AFL player Bret Thornton kicked four and was good, while James Condos kicked 10.1 from full forward,” he said.
McGoldrick said the side was looking forward to the break this weekend, before an Anzac Day clash with Albion.
“We had a long preseason, so the coach is giving the players a whole week off over Easter to rest the bodies,” he said.
“We still have a few players to come back in. Ryan Houlihan and Jackson Barling will return from injury and Shylo Smith, who was among the best against St Albans, missed this week because of work.
“They will only strengthen the side.”
In other division 1 matches, Albion and Hoppers Crossing got their first wins.
Albion beat St Albans 15.11 (101) to 8.6 (54), while Hoppers Crossing was too strong for Sunshine, 12.17 (89) to 10.8 (68).
In division 2, Glenorden, Sunshine Heights, North Footscray and West Footscray were among the winners.
