East Sunbury had no complaints after its round one thrashing of Hadfield in Essendon District Football League division 2.
The Thunder took a little bit to get going, but once they did, they ran away with the match, winning 20.19 (139)-8.1 (49).
Thunder coach Steve Grey was more than happy with the first-up result.
“We’ve got off to a good start and can’t complain with a 90-point win,” he said.
“We started off scratchy, we had a lot of play forward, but we couldn’t convert.
“They were converting every time they went forward.
“With the new players coming in, we were right once we got going.
“We moved the ball well and we’ve added a bit more hardness and experience.”
Ruckman Jorden Braddy was best on ground, winning the David Kimpton Medal, named after the club legend who passed away in 2016.
It’s the second year the club has awarded the medal and dedicated the game in Kimpton’s honour.
Grey said they were hoping for a big year from Braddy.
“He was injured a lot last year and we think he will have a big year this year.”
Kamen Ogilvie, who has returned to the Thunder this season, and Callum Lever were the other standouts. Lever kicked five goals.
Grey said they would take a bit of time to hit their straps with so many new players in their side.
Among the off season signings were Anthony Sammut, Tim Hill, Shane Lindsay, Ogilvie and Jamerson Campbell.
Grey said he’s happy with the early signs.
“Everyone is getting along well together and it’s starting to show on the field,” he said.
“They’re gelling well, but there’s still plenty of room for improvement.
“I’m not expecting us to start peaking for another three to four weeks.”
Grey said after making inroads the past couple of seasons, finals were the clear goal this year.
“We have to make finals,” he said.
“We need to be more consistent across the season. Our best is as good as anyone else.
“The new guys will add experience and help them out, but it’s not just the new players coming in and making a difference.
“I think we can improve by 30 per cent.”
He said the likes of Lachlan Brne, Callum Lever, Tom Cree and Jake Spiteri would be among those he expected to step up even further this season.
Northern Saints and Moonee Valley were the other winners in round one.
Meanwhile, the division 2 season has been extended due to the withdrawal of Keilor Park.
To ensure that all teams have the same amount of byes and make the season even, the season will now have 21 rounds instead of 18.
