Panthers outclass the Giants

COMING in off the back of a dominating win in the Reserves, Kilcunda-Bass’ Seniors were ready and raring to go in its opening game of the season against Korumburra-Bena.

Playing in front of a large, supportive crowd in great conditions, the Panthers managed to claim a 51-point victory in a game played in good spirits.

Kilcunda-Bass gave a strong performance in the first half, putting four goals on the board in the first quarter.

Korumburra-Bena held its own and managed to keep the ball locked in its forward 50 for around seven minutes of the first term, implementing the strategies from new coach Josh Hopkins.

However, Korumburra-Bena was unable to capitalise and the experience and depth in the Kilcunda-Bass side continued to win out.

The Giants’ Evan Allaway had a good day in the ruck, winning a lot of contests.

Despite this, the Panthers were quick to win the ball back.

Anthony Daraio and Jayden Goumas were solid in the midfield and gave plenty of entries in Kilcunda-Bass’ forward 50. 

Daraio kicked four goals for the day. 

Korumburra-Bena’s Kye Benson challenged Kilcunda-Bass in the midfield. 

An early blow to the head rattled Benson, but he was able to rally and continue to play a strong game. 

By halftime, Kilcunda-Bass had established a healthy margin against the Giants.

Korumburra-Bena had a burst of energy in the third quarter, and more goals started to appear on the scoreboard.

Former coach Paul Fermanis was moved out of the midfield into the forward line and created more opportunities for the Giants. 

Matt Kennewell played an important role in Korumburra-Bena’s defence, taking several clear marks in Kilcunda-Bass’ forward 50.

However, the repeat entries made defensive pressure difficult to maintain. 

Play became more congested as the quarter progressed, as both sides grappled for possession.

For a period, Korumburra-Bena looked to be playing on its own terms, but it wasn’t sustainable.

The skill in the Kilcunda-Bass lineup continued to be the dominating factor.

Goumas had a standout performance, playing hard right until the end and showcasing the fitness at Kilcunda-Bass.

He finished the game with 28 possessions, and onballer Cam McKenzie had 23 possessions. 

Young Jed Rosenow played his first Senior game and showed he is going to be an asset throughout the season.

Around 200 people celebrated Kilcunda-Bass’ win in the clubrooms, which was reported as a first for coach Lee Rowe.

Kilcunda-Bass will be playing Tooradin Dalmore this week.

Tooradin Dalmore is coming off a loss, and Kilcunda-Bass is anticipating it will be a big challenge.

The Panthers will be working hard to hone its skills during the week in the lead up to the clash.

Korumburra-Bena will play the Warragul Industrials away.

This will be another tough game, but the Giants will continue to take positives out of their matches and work towards their ongoing development going forward.