Before the Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield season began, Euroa had its focus firmly on the club's up-and-coming junior stars.
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And that focus is yet to shift after the first month of action didn't provide any points for the winless Magpies before they take on the Northerners in their round five clash.
Progression of the club's young guns is what captain Sean Hemeter is focusing on most, with multiple junior sensations impressing the Magpies skipper.
Last weekend Euroa suffered a four-wicket loss to in-form Nagambie, with the strengths of Mark and Luke Nolan steering the Lakers to victory.
Despite the loss, teenager Josh Robertson led the way with the bat and scored a gallant 34 runs at first-drop, registering his highest score in Haisman Shield.
After a tough start to the season, the promising junior looks to be finding his feet after joining Euroa during the off-season.
“Joshy has got a very bright future ahead of him,” Hemeter said.
“One thing that stands out is that he's always eager to learn and asking questions.
“He's still playing under-16s, but he batted extremely well last week in the Haisman Shield which is a great sign.”
As well as Robertson, Hemeter said fellow teenager Fletcher Paul had showcased plenty of ability with the new-ball for the Magpies.
“Fletcher is another youngster that has shown plenty of promise,” he said.
“I thought he bowled really well last week and it's nice to see him improve each week.
“All these guys are very young and all we ask is to see improvement.
“And that is something that we have seen already which is exciting.”
Tomorrow's opponents are certain to be a handful for the inexperienced Magpies, with Northerners boasting in-form duo Ben Pedretti and Joel Brett.
Brett picked up 2-28 — which moves him to 11 wickets for the season — in last weekend's win against Shepparton United, while Pedretti posted a superb 48-run knock at the top of the order.
Hemeter said his young side was looking forward to tomorrow's home match, after away games to Numurkah and Nagambie.
“We have a month at home now and we are all looking forward to putting in a good showing — it's always nice to play at home,” Hemeter said.
“But with the rain that is forecast, fingers crossed we can get out on the field for some overs.”
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