The Hoppers spearhead is once again in sight of the century, requiring 22 goals after adding a further three against Shepparton East at the weekend.
After achieving the impressive milestone last year, Lloyd is understandably eager to repeat the feat, but acknowledges that opposing backlines have made it more challenging than during his 137-goal season in 2024.
“It's very different,” Lloyd said.
“I find that the defenders, especially this year, have got a lot better.
“Kicking the 100 for the first time last year was just wicked, to be able to do it again would be pretty cool.
“We’ll aim for that and see how we go; don't know if we'll get there playing centre half-forward for the rest of the year, but we'll see how we go.”
Lloyd's diverse football career has included stints in Goulburn Valley League, a premiership with Leongatha in the Gippsland league and a brief period with the now-disbanded Quambatook club, showcasing his adaptability and skill across various competitions.
But now plying his trade out of Murchison Recreation Reserve, Lloyd has found himself enjoying the Hoppers’ culture playing alongside brothers Aidan and Andrew, who unfortunately have been waylaid by injuries.
“I've loved it,” Lloyd said.
“(It’s) a great culture at the club to be able to do this.
“I can't wait for Andrew to be back in a week or so; he's been out for three or four weeks, so fingers crossed he’ll be training this week and back next week.”
Another premiership tilt is on the cards for the Hoppers, who responded with a comeback 33-point win after dropping their first game since 2023 to Lancaster.
“I guess it was probably a good wake-up call,” Lloyd said.
“(Shepparton East) got the jump on us nice and early and to be able to respond like we did and not go into our shells, I think showed what we’re actually about.”
Stanhope, Girgarre and Violet Town are the final three home and away fixtures for Lloyd’s Hoppers, with a minimum five games available to accomplish the 100 should they hold on to their top-two position.
Baker’s delight on return
Another Murchison-Toolamba player matched it with Lloyd in last weekend’s clash and it’s been a long time in between drinks.
Three seasons to be exact.
Dylan Baker, recalled to the senior squad for the first time since 2022, booted a pivotal three goals on return, including the sealer in the dying stages of the round 14 fixture.
A strong presence parked out of the goalsquare, Baker had booted 15 goals from eight reserves games.
The Hoppers’ twos are currently undefeated with a percentage of 953.
