DEFEATED 2015 grand finalist Merrivale knows it must work harder for its wins this season.
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That’s why Tigers coach Karl Dwyer is thrilled with their 4-1 start to the Warrnambool and District league campaign.
An eight-goal first term set up Merrivale’s 31.15 (201) to 6.6 (42) triumph against East Warrnambool at Reid Oval on Saturday.
“We said to ourselves we’re not in a position this year to rock up and think it’s going to happen,” Dwyer said.
“We have to make sure we’re in the right mindset come the first bounce otherwise it will be a dogfight."
Dwyer was thrilled with the Tigers’ ball use against the Bombers, particularly going forward.
Josh Keilar, who slotted eight goals in his 100th game, and teenager Jack Neave (five) were the beneficiaries.
Lachie Kelly chimed in with four goals.
“His work-rate is high and it was good to see him rewarded,” Dwyer said.
Dwyer was also pleased with the contributions from the Tigers’ next generation, citing the efforts of Will Lenehan, Des Watson, Ollie Watson, Jyron Neade and substitute Sam Worden.
Merrivale plays South Rovers and Russells Creek, which is anchored to the foot of the table, before the bye.
Dwyer believes the Tigers can take momentum into the break.
“There has been consistent improvement – sometimes with things like tackles, or centre clearances or stoppages,” he said.
“Hopefully by rounds eight to 12, when we have four games in a row against pretty good opposition, we can be at our best.”
East Warrnambool coach Paul Hrabar said the promising debut of Allansford recruit Jyran Chatfield a major positive for the undermanned Bombers.
Chatfield, 16, booted three goals after starting as the sub and replacing fellow teenager Liam Feros-Collins, who is considered a long-term prospect, in the first term.
“It is fantastic to have him and his brothers and other Allansford players come and join us,” Hrabar said.
“They want to be part of East Warrnambool and that is a positive for the club.
"Jyran showed what he is capable of and was great to watch.
“He’s 16 years of age so he has a lot of ability.
“(Sunraysia league recruit) Dylan Burns showed he can be a key target as well.
“With fitness to come, he’ll be a major focus for us as well as Jyran.”
East Warrnambool is sweating on the fitness of boom recruit Shannon Turner. The former VFL-listed utility is carrying a groin complaint and was forced from the field in the third term. Bombers assistant coach Danny Chatfield was also hurt in the loss.