MPNFL: Dromana topples Frankston YCW in Division 1

The Tigers say they’re happy to fly under the radar after knocking off Frankston YCW — but one of their key players was rushed to hospital for surgery.

Dromana coach Matt Price. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Dromana coach Matt Price says his side will “take on anyone, anywhere’’.

It’s an attitude the Tigers are keen to carry through the season after making a robust start on Saturday with a 26-point win over Frankston YCW at John Coburn Oval.

And the stirring win was achieved despite losing former skipper Dan Geurts in the opening five minutes.

Geurts suffered a split lip and was taken to hospital for surgery.

With youngster Ben Tovey starring at centre half-back, Dromana led by a point at quarter-time, 13 points at half-time and maintained its advantage in the second half to win 10.12 (72) to 6.10 (46).

Former Mt Eliza star Daniel Gormley was also one of Dromana’s best, capping a lively display with a goal, while Billy Geurts, Daniel Marchesani, Billy Quigley and Tom Crimmins were in everything.

Dromana ruckman Billy Geurts.

Berwick recruit Jordan Andrews gave Dromana a target up forward, kicking two goals.

The Tigers didn’t let up and denied Frankston YCW the chance to mount a late comeback.

Price said his side went into the game with a point to prove and determined to “throw everything at it”.

“It wasn’t like it wasn’t expected for us but obviously other people rave about YC and are happy not to worry about us which is fine,” he said.

“All the players know that and are happy to embrace the challenge, they’ll take on anyone, anywhere.

“That’s the sort of philosophy they have in their head. They don’t need the hype, they just love playing footy.”

Former Mt Eliza player Daniel Gormley was in Dromana’s best.

Dromana won the 2019 premiership and, after two Covid interrupted seasons, remains the MPNFL Division 1 reigning champs.

“They still have that same mentality,’’ Price said of his players’ mindset.

“It’s exciting for the year now because it just means we know we’re going to be thereabouts week to week which is all you can ask for.’’

Frankston YCW scored a rousing come-from-behind win over Bonbeach last week but never got going on Saturday, despite the efforts of Blake Mullane, Luke Paynter and Max Gregory.

Dromana faces Red Hill, at Red Hill, on Good Friday, while Frankston YCW meets Pines on Easter Saturday.