The 19-year-old has become an important player for East Warrnambool since crossing from Hampden league club South Warrnambool at the start of the season.

Templeton produced a best-on-ground performance in the Bombers’ 31-point round-seven victory over Russells Creek.

Playing on a wing, Templeton kicked three goals in a game where the Bombers came from behind to win.

“To be down by 30 points at half-time and come back and win showed a lot of grit and character,” Templeton said.

“There is a lot of belief in our team, we go into each game thinking we can win.”

The Bombers had a bye in round eight Warrnambool and district league action and will be back on Saturday against Dennington.

One of the Bombers’ two wins last season was against the Dogs and they will go into the round nine encounter as a live chance.

Dennington has three wins to its name while East Warrnambool is hot on its heels with two of its own.

Templeton, who captained South Warrnambool’s under 18.5s team last year, said he was looking forward to the game, which would be played at Dennington.

“Because I have never played in the district league before every game is pretty exciting,” he said.

“I don’t really know much about the history of how we have gone against teams so it’s all new to me.

“I’m really enjoying it, there is a good vibe around the club, it’s a pretty close group, everyone looks out for each other.”

East Warrnambool coach Danny Chatfield said Templeton had been a good inclusion for his team.

He said Templeton’s positive influence had gone beyond just game days.

“Blokes like Caleb and Dylan Cross set the standard at training, especially with how hard they run,” Chatfield said.

“They are natural leaders through their actions and help lift the intensity of our training.”

Chafield said a plus for his team this year had been increased player depth.

This has allowed for a more settled line-up with East Warrnambool having just one change for its clash with the Dogs.

In comparison, Dennington will go into the game without a swag of experienced players including Luke Duncan, Tim Sheldon, Angus Chirnside, Justin Wallace and Billy Keane. 

Despite this absence of key players, the Dogs will carry some momentum into the clash after a convincing 70-point win over Russells Creek last week.

There will be some extra motivation with key position player Geoff Keane playing his 150^th club game for Dennington.