Season 2006 to kick-off with local derby

The Hampton Rovers will now play St Bedes Mentone in the opening round of the 2006 season after the revised VAFA fixture was announced today. In what is set to be a big game, the large contingent of Rovers supporters will now only have to travel a few k’s for Round 1 as oppose to the long trek out to Old Paradians as was the case in the original draw.

The Rovers opening two games of the season are against the two teams relegated from B Section in 2005 – in their first home game of the season the following week, the Rovers take on North Old Boys at Boss James Reserve.

2006 is set to be a big year, with three local derbies after Ormond was promoted, St Bedes Mentone relegated and Parkdale Vultures who remain in C Section.

The Rovers biggest home games of the season will be against Ormond in Round 4, St Bedes in Round 10 and Parkdale in Round 15. All three games are sure to attract big crowds to Boss James Reserve. Fitzroy Reds will complete the home and away season, away from home.

In 2006, Ajax will be playing all their home games at Elsternwick Park, meaning the Rovers will play at headquarters in Round 16.

See the full fixture below. The draw for the Under 19’s will be released in January. For full details including ground locations, see the Fixtures page.