Sport
28 March, 2023
Bombers to face reigning premiers
ROUND one of Hampden League footy kicks off this weekend, with Cobden set to face reigning premiers Koroit at home.
ROUND one of Hampden League footy kicks off this weekend, with Cobden set to face reigning premiers Koroit at home.
The Bombers have had a huge recruitment drive off season, with coach Dan Casey heading into Saturday’s opener full of confidence in his charges.
“Like all clubs our aim is to have a crack at finals this year,” Casey said.
“After finishing in sixth last season, and just missing finals, the boys are hungry for success and have worked really hard in the lead-up to round one; it’s certainly been a long off season.”
The Bombers’ recruiting panel has also been hard at work, with a mix of new and old faces set to once again pull on the red and black jumper.
Brody Mahony is among those to return to the Bombers after stints in the Central Districts competition in South Australia and more recently at Colac.
He returns as a co-coach and Casey believes will play an integral on-field role.
“Having Brody as a playing co-coach has drawn a few others and I’m really looking forward to seeing what he brings to the table,” he said.
“He’s a great bloke to have around the club and a strong leader.”
Paddy Smith and Daniel Watson have also committed to the Bombers this season after recovering from ACL injuries, while Jordy Fowler has crossed over from Timboon.
“We’ve also picked up a quality ruckman in Mark Marriott, who’s been in South Australia and now back locally; along with Jack Hammond who has spent two or so seasons in Darwin before moving to Tangalla (near Echuca), Casey said.
“It’s great to have him home because he’s a quick half-forward flanker who will be one of our key players.”
Adding to the Bombers list this season is versatile back liner Noah Mounsey, who has returned from Katherine in the Northern Territory, and Jesse Williamson – a quick mid-fielder who spent his
junior years with the Bombers.
“Martin Angus moved away for a while and now he’s back with us this season and being a big fella he’ll be handy at full or centre half-forward,” Casey said.
“With so many returning locals, coupled with the retention of last year’s playing list and the introduction of some new faces, we’re really heading into this new season on a positive note.”
Reflecting on season 2022, Casey said it was a challenging year for his side but despite the hurdles, a sixth-place finish was a credit to all those who took to the field.
“Last year we had 12 under 18s have a crack at seniors and that was not only great for their footy but also for the future of our club,” he said.
“It gave them the exposure they needed to develop and grow.”
Facing the reigning premiers in round one won’t be an easy task for the Bombers but Casey said they are up for the challenge.
“Playing Koroit on our home game will really give us an indication of where we’re at from round one,” he said.
“The first time we played them last season we were belted and the second time it was a wet day and we were just too small against them. It’ll be interesting to see how we go this weekend.”
In other round one Hampden League matches this Saturday, Camperdown will take on Terang Mortlake, North Warrnambool will take on Hamilton Kangaroos, Portland will play Warrnambool and Port Fairy will meet South Warrnambool.