Shepparton Swans started their Goulburn Valley League A-grade season in winning style on Saturday with a comfortable result over Benalla.
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The 44-27 victory at Princess Park may not be remembered as the Swans’ prettiest win, nor reflect the dominance shown by the victors, but it was expected from a relatively new playing group finding their feet.
Only a handful of players remain from the Swans’ 2019 outfit that made finals and multiple names are hitting the court for the first time in years.
However, the Swans did show glimpses of their best in the 17-goal win and playing coach Jana Bruinier was relieved to start the year with four points.
“It was nice to rip the band-aid off,” she said post-match.
“There were some promising things, but also a lot of areas to work on, which we knew would be the case.
“All 10 players got out there, in all new different combinations which was great.
“We have got nothing to lose in playing like that until we establish what works for us.
“None of us have played together, so the connections will come, knowing our strengths and where we like to run will take time.
“We have really worked on our one-on-one defence and I think you could see that show.”
After a rusty start to the match, the first term went the way of the home side as goaler Sophie Atkinson shined in attack.
Another double-digit score in the second quarter extended Swans’ margin out to eight goals at the main break.
Swans were able to restrict Benalla's attack in the second half, which allowed them to cruise home to victory.
Tiarna Steele starred in the defensive end for the hosts, while Atkinson and midcourter Kristy Down contributed strongly.
Bridget Hill worked hard in attack and Rhiannon Teichert served up multiple classy intercepts in the defensive end which saw the duo be the Saints’ top performers.
Looking ahead to next week, Benalla faces a stern test against Echuca at home while the Swans travel to take on Kyabram.
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