Outer East league 2023: Emerald Bombers go bang first-up

A slick Emerald gave Officer a 10-goal spanking in Outer East league, but injuries to recruits tempered celebrations.

Emerald’s Harry Lang was among Emerald’s best players on Saturday. Picture: Robyn Kuys

Emerald is serious about having a crack at the flag in Outer East Division 1 this season.

The Bombers have brought in experienced recruits, they are starting training 30 minutes earlier and their focus is on being mentally tougher.

It showed on Saturday, when Emerald thrashed Officer by 60 points, 17.21 (123) to 8.15 (63), in the season opener at Chandler Reserve.

The Bombers blitzed 14 goals to six after quarter time to put a cap on the victory.

Yarra Junction recruit David Johnson made an impressive start with four goals, while Lachlan Hoye and Callum White also kicked four apiece as the Bombers forward line functioned smoothly.

David Johnson.

Nick Russo.

Mitchell Thomas, Steven Paull and Cranbourne recruit Adrian Russo also ran hot, along with young Mitchell Gottschalk in the backline and high-flying Harry Lang.

“We’re just trying to strengthen the club and play consistent, good footy this year,” Emerald coach Sein Clearihan said.

“And stay in the big games like when we play Seville and Berwick Springs and even Officer…stay in those big games.

“Last year just the mental side of it dropped off. That’s what we’ve been working on…just the belief in the group, we believe in one another.

“We’re starting training half an hour earlier that what we did last year…it’s a good vibe down there at the moment.”

But Emerald’s joy from winning was tempered by injuries to Cranbourne recruits Nick Russo (knee) and Michael Richardson (ribs).

Clearihan hoped both players would return within weeks.

“I think we’ve dodged a bullet,” he said.

Emerald was down to two on the bench, but still controlled play.

“The scores don’t reflect the game,” Clearihan said.

“It was played at a pretty high standard. Officer were right into it. It’s good to get the win.”

Clearihan said Johnson up forward was “magnificent for us”, while Jack McGough came up from the under 19s and impressed on debut.

Officer is aiming to bounce back strongly this season after dropping down from Premier division. Despite losing, the Kangaroos showed signs of promise, with Anthony Bernardo, Mitchell Mibus and skipper Brent Moloney (3 goals) playing well.

*Former AFL Melbourne Demon and current Casey Demons VFL captain Mitch White has made Emerald his home club this season.

Clearihan hopes he will play a couple of games with the Bombers when his VFL commitments allow.

“Mitch will bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and confidence around the club and the group this year and expect to see him in the red sash very very soon,’’ the club said.

“Mitch will be providing his knowledge in the coaches box and on the ground and we can’t wait to have him around the club to share all he has with the young boys around the club.’’