Before the season was cancelled in 2020, many were tipping the Eagles to challenge for a Murray Football League premiership.
But in 2021, they are the great unknown.
When the side takes to the field in the opening game of the season against Moama, there will be plenty of new faces running out in the blue and gold.
Experienced players including competition leading goal-kicker Josh Mellington (now at Violet Town) have departed followed the resignation of Guy Campbell.
It has left new coach Adam Sutherland with a lot to contemplate, but he is ready to embrace the challenge.
“This new group has the perfect opportunity to forge their own identity,” Sutherland said.
“Being new to the competition and area I don’t think I’m in any position to make a bold statement about what we are going to achieve.
“Having several young kids in the side is a great unknown for everyone involved because anything could happen.
“The sink or swim approach has plenty of excitement about it.”
The Eagles’ young guns won’t be forced to go at it alone though with Sutherland bringing in a trio of talented mature-aged bodies.
They include Tom Wallis, the son of former Essendon premiership player Dean, Michael Caven and Mitch Jensen.
“I think all three of those guys add some real quality to our line-up,” Sutherland said.
“They’ve all played at a high level, whether it be at the elite level or strong local competitions, and they can show our guys the way forward.”
As to what type of footy we can expect to see from the Eagles, Sutherland said it was clear his team’s athletic ability had stood out during pre-season.
“We want to move the footy fast, but without taking any unnecessary risk,” he said.
“I want the boys to play with a high temp and pressure the opposition relentlessly.
“If we can get it right I think we could surprise a few.”
Fast facts
Coach: Adam Sutherland. MFL Premierships: 2013. 2019 finish: Fifth (15-5). 2019 best and fairest: Josh Mellington. 2019 leading goal-kicker: Josh Mellington. Ground: Echuca South Recreation Reserve. Nickname: Eagles.
Player changes
INS: Drew Austin (Mathoura), Adam Bennett (Mathoura), Matt Lias (Echuca/Tiwi Bombers), Connor Shannon (Lockington), Lachlan Egglestone (Lockington), Mitch Jensen (Essendon Doutta Stars), Tommy Wallis (Essendon Doutta Stars), Michael Caven (St Bernard's)
OUTS: Ashley Carmody (Waaia), Kyle Coates (Queensland), Nic Denahy (Kyabram), Phil Hubbard (Elmore), Josh Mellington (Violet Town), Farran Priest (Elmore), Luke Sanderson (Strathmerton), Clayton Zanella (Strathmerton), Dean Moon (retired), Rowan Priest (retired).
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