Nathan Thompson stars as Kyneton opens its Bendigo league account against Castlemaine

Former North Melbourne and Hawthorn forward Nathan Thompson spearheaded Kyneton to its first win of the Bendigo Football League season on Saturday with a six-goal haul.

Nathan Thompson chases down the ball. Picture: Aaron Cook

Former AFL forward Nathan Thompson spearheaded Kyneton’s first win of the Bendigo Football League season on Saturday.

Thompson booted six goals to guide the Tigers to a 17.14 (116) to 6.15 (51) road win over Castlemaine.

After tough losses to Golden Square and Gisborne in the opening fortnight, Kyneton coach Luke Beattie believes the win can kick-start his club’s campaign.

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“I think the boys played very well against Golden Square at times, but the scoreline didn’t reflect the game,” he said.

“Gisborne are a very efficient and effective outfit … all-in-all I think the start to the season has been impressive.

“Hopefully this keeps the young blokes going and more opportunities present themselves and that’s as early as this weekend against Kangaroo Flat.”

Nathan Thompson in action against Gisborne in Round 2. Picture: Aaron Cook

After an even first half, the Tigers kicked 10 goals to three after the main break with 10 players hitting the scoreboard.

Beattie praised Thompson’s impact in the attacking half and Harrison Huntley’s performance in defence.

“He (Thompson) played well. He’s a fantastic target deep inside 50m and he’s still got some good lateral movement,” he said.

“I think we spread the scoring outside of him pretty well.

“Harrison was very impressive in defence and took some great intercept marks but also was a great launching pad to give us opportunities.”

Darcy Harris was one of Kyneton’s best against Castlemaine. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin

The Tigers will look to even their win-loss record this weekend when they host Kangaroo Flat at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Kangaroos will be looking to bounce back from a big 89-point loss to premiership contender Gisborne.

Pat McKenna was in the goals again for the Bulldogs with five, along with Jack Scanlon, while former VFL-listed midfielder Brad Bernacki was prolific through the midfield.

Gisborne will look to continue its undefeated start to the season when it hosts to Strathfieldsaye at Gardiner Reserve.

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