Dark night for the black and white

UNDER lights in front of the brimming crowd, Dalyston kicked off their 2023 campaign hosting Koo Wee Rup but despite high expectations the Magpies faithful copped an early reality check.

Starting in drizzly conditions both teams were keen to test each other out. 

Dalyston attacking first were denied by the Demon’s Nathan Muratore, rebounding from half back.

The new look black and white unit with eight new faces had barely settled when Koo Wee Rup launched into action with three goals in three minutes to Amin, Wells and Galante. 

The Demons were hungry for the ball and quick to go deep into their forward 50.

Jason Wells, as dangerous as ever, snapped his second and the visitors had already created a margin.

Tempers flared and both teams tangled on the outer boundary as the rain strengthened and it was evident nothing would come easy for the home team.

Dalyston commenced the second term with energy and a deep entry allowed Hayden Wallis to deliver a much-needed goal with a quick snap in traffic.

Tim Miller delivered a quick reply for the Demons and the methodical Koo Wee Rup held sway.

Wells benefitting by the good work of Nicholas Bindley added his third, and Gallante crumbed his second as things were looking bleak for the Pies.

Their best period of the game came in the next ten minutes as collectively the team were more controlled with their disposals. 

Max Connell and Brad Monson generated more forward entries propelling the ball forward off their wings.

Mason Storr delighted the crowd with long bomb goal deep on the boundary, but the Demons counterattacked through Bindley and his goal gave them a 43-point half-time lead. 

If the result was not already obvious, Koo Wee Rup renewed their dominance with an immediate two goal burst to start the third term. 

Dalyston gritted their teeth and held the ball in their half for most of the quarter but the slippery ball and the resolute Demon defenders, led by Voss and Muratore, denied them time after time.

From that point it was all one-way traffic, at least on the scoreboard. Koo Wee Rup adapted to the conditions much better, stayed upright in the contest and continued to run in support of their team-mates.

The Magpies will hope to see a much-improved performance when they meet Kilcunda-Bass, in the light of day at Bass this weekend. 

The Demons will hope their winning form continues against Nar Nar Goon.