In the first game of the 2003 VAFA season, the Rovers faced up to Melbourne High School Old Boys at Boss James Reserve and could not withstand the 1st Quarter pressure applied by the relegated A section side. The Rovers were wrong footed from the start as they were forced to withdraw Adam Power, last seasons B section top goalkicker, from the selected side due to a sustained groin injury.
At the end of the 1st Quarter Melbourne High had taken a strong lead of 4 goals and troubled the Rovers with their strong marking and superior pace. From the 2nd Quarter on it was apparent that the latitude given would be difficult to catch-up as each Rover attack was quickly answered by the opposition.
Amongst the Rovers players to stand out were new recruits Nick Greenwood and Damian Rayson, but continuing on from last year the hard work was again left up to the regular performers in Campbell McKellar, Garry Carr and Michael Davey. Top possession winner Leigh Fletcher was voted by the Rovers faithful as their best on ground for the day.
Next week the Rovers face up to North Old Boys at
FINAL SCORES: MHSOB 11.11.77 d ROVERS 7.10.52
BEST PLAYERS: Leigh Fletcher,
Photos of the game are available from the Photo Gallery.
The Reserves kicked off their season in style with a convincing win by more than 12 goals and some top performances will apply pressure at the selection table next week.
And the Under 19’s also had an excellent start by narrowly defeating Old Paradians by 5 points after the long haul to Bundoora.