Neville Mahney establishing spot in Warrnambool Gold lawn bowls side

Neville 'Digger' Mahney is 66, Justin Cross still a teenager.

The pair have played their parts in the Western District Playing Area juggernaut's 3-0 start to the 2021-22 season.

Warrnambool Gold was too strong for Port Fairy Red in Saturday's clash, winning 94-33 at its Timor Street base.

Port Fairy Red is the only winless team in the 10-side competition.

Mahney, who is playing second to skipper Paul O'Donnell, said Cross was an impressive player.

"It is a young man's game. He's a very good player and a good lad," he said.

Mahney, who was a forward during his football career at South Warrnambool, Mortlake and South Rovers, said he fell into lawn bowls.

"I used to play golf and then I broke an ankle and that was the end of that so bowls was next," he said.

"My brother-in-law Jeff Rundle introduced me to it. I came down and started and got hooked straight away."

He worked his way up the ranks at Warrnambool, earning a spot in its highly-rated Gold side this season.

"You just work your way up. This is my third game with these guys," Mahney said.

"It's pretty full on, it is a challenge but that's what we're here for. It is a big step up but you just do what you can. I love it."

Mahney said consistency was the main aspect which separated top-grade players from the pack.

He knows there is pressure on from those in the lower grades.

"I'd love to hold my spot. You can only keep doing your best and see what happens," Mahney said.

Warrnambool Gold won all three rinks against Port Fairy Red.

O'Donnell's team, which also included Barry Crimmin and Anthony Parkinson, produced a 23-15 result.

Ben Cornick led his rink to a dominant 39-4 win and Mark Bowles' rink won 32-14.

In other Saturday pennant games, City Memorial Gold stretched its undefeated streak to three games, inflicting Timboon Gold's first loss in the process. City Gold won 82-58.

Clubmate City Memorial Red celebrated its first victory of the season, downing newcomer Dunkeld 73-55.

It was Dunkeld's first loss since joining division one.

Koroit Blue was too strong for Mortlake Blue, claiming a 83-42 triumph, and Terang Green defeated Warrnambool Blue 71-58.

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