After breaking the hearts of Cohuna fans everywhere last September, Kerang will once again enter a new season as the team to beat.
The Blues claimed their ninth premiership since joining the Central Murray competition in a highly anticipated clash against the Kangas.
The big question is, with both clubs expected to be thereabouts again, along with perennial finalists Woorinen, will we see the two southern heavyweights slug it out again – or are we on the cusp of seeing a new challenger emerge?
With a strong off-season and the return of some favourite sons, Balranald appear to be the team most likely to jump from the chasing pack and make a play at the big three. After a much-improved performance in 2022, that saw Balranald finish just half a game outside the top five, the Roos appear primed to take the next step – with Matthew and Jaxon Neagle set to join their brother Jydon, who dreams of emulating his famous father Merv as a premiership coach of Balranald.
While Balranald are set to improve, so too are Lake Boga, with the Magpies expected to better last season’s output with a new look forward line and deeper midfield. After making the semi-final last year, could Lake Boga take the next step and challenge the premiers in the year when they’ll celebrate the 20-year reunion of their last flag?
Tyntynder also made some big strides last season. Can the Doggies emulate their top five feats, or will their elimination final fade-out be a weight too heavy to bare?
Nyah-Nyah West United and Tooleybuc-Manangatang have recruited heavily, and while both clubs are coming from a long way back, it wouldn’t surprise to see either of them battling it out for a finals berth. Similarly, could either of Koondrook-Barham or Swan Hill see a spike in performance with new coaches at the helm – or could a better run with injuries see the Mallee Eagles rise once again?
While every team in the bottom half of the ladder should improve – none of Kerang, Cohuna or Woorinen will give up their lofty standing easily. Despite losing key players from their line-ups, all three should be among the best teams in the competition again.
With so much uncertainty and intrigue building over the past six months – the time for talk is now over. Best of luck to all clubs, players, coaches and supporters – and may the best team win.
