Greenbacks grab big opening win

Cable Beach Greenbacks have begun their 2019 WKFL campaign with a good old-fashioned thumping over reigning premiers Looma Eagles, in honour of the late Brett Claudius.

The grand final rematch looked like it would be a hard-fought clash on paper but the result was anything but close.

Windy conditions affected play for most of the first quarter, with several set shots resulting in behinds and a scrappy mid-field contest.

However, Greenbacks recruit Kiefer Yu managed to break through late to score the opening goal and give his team a seven-point lead at quarter-time.

As the wind continued to howl during the second quarter, the scrappy contest continued as the Greenbacks extended their lead over the Eagles.

Greenbacks’ Matthew Kennelly and Sonny Dann added to the scoreboard while Looma's Lewis Broome and Zephaniah Skinner kicked late majors to remain in contention.

By half-time, the Greenbacks were leading the Eagles 4.8 (40) to 2.4 (16).

Looma seemed rejuvenated after the main break as Deromitt Wilson kicked an early major in their comeback attempt.

However, Greenbacks’ Sam Fong retaliated with a goal of his own as his teammates began shutting down the Eagles.

Although Looma’s Remahli Skeen and Remaliah Daiseybell kicked majors to spark a revival, Greenbacks’ Benjamin Gasior, Yu and Dann kept their team in the lead by 21 points at three-quarter-time.

The final term was where the Greenbacks really shined, booting seven goals and keeping the Eagles goalless.

Cable Beach went on to take the victory 15.11 (101) to 5.7 (37), beginning their season on a massive high.

The Greenbacks will look to replicate their near-perfect 2018 campaign when they take on Towns Football Club on Friday, May 10 ,at Father McMahon Oval.

Looma Eagles will look to redeem themselves when they square off against Bidyadanga Emus at Haynes Oval on Saturday, May 11.