The Hampton Rovers made their intentions clear for the 2007 season with a crushing 104-point victory over Old Paradians in the season opener at Boss James Reserve.
A sunny day greeted the large crowd at Boss James Reserve, eagerly awaiting the VAFA season opener which pitted the Hampton Rovers against Old Paradians. Primed by the roaring success of ?A Good Days Night?, the massive depression awareness concert held at The Boss two weeks prior, the huge crowd was entertained to an exciting brand of football, delivered under the tutelage of the new senior coach, Gary Sheldon (former Liston Medal winner with Coburg FC).
The seniors easily accounted for Old Paradians with a 17 goal win, which places the Rovers on top of the ladder. Better players on the day were Rob Alexander, Mark Deveraux, Matthew Lawrence, Matt Terech and young Maxy Greenway. Newly appointed senior captain Matthew Lawrence led the goal kicking with 8, while Rob Alexander kicked 4, Carr & Devereax 3, Zampaglione 2, and singles to Giasoumi, Leigh Fletcher and Duddy.
The Reserves were well led in their 28 goal victory by Josh Verlin, Brenton Holt and Ben Kezeilis under new coach Richard Bulmer. Malthouse, Gray and Yelland kicked 4 each. The win also sees them top the ladder, with a 2088.89 percentage. The Under 19s completed the trifecta with a 12 goal win against Peninsula Old Boys. Better players were White, Stowe and Sweeny.
Next week, the Seniors and Reserves face Old Mentonians at Keysborough Playing Fields, Springvale Rd, and the Under 19s play St Bedes Mentone in a local derby at Brindisi St, Mentone. The Rovers are hosting an Ovarian Cancer Cocktail Night this Saturday night (click here and see this weeks Bayside Leader for details).
A great start to the season with all three teams having strong wins, however it is only round 1 with 17 to go. The Rovers need your support in 2007 to make it a successful one so get on board as the club moves forward.
HAMPTON ROVERS 5.1 13.6 17.8 23.12 (150)
OLD PARADIANS 2.1 3.6 4.8 6.10 (46)
Goals: Lawrence 8, Alexander 4, Carr 3, Devereaux 3, Zampaglione 2, Giasoumi, L.Fletcher, Duddy.
Best: Alexander, M.Fletcher, L.Fletcher, Terech, Zampaglione, Lawrence.
