Kyneton to launch Riddell District season with Good Friday blockbuster

Newcomers Kyneton will have the honour of launching the 2024 Riddell District season with a Good Friday blockbuster against neighbours Woodend-Hesket.

Mitch Comben in action for Kyneton. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin

Newcomers Kyneton are set to kick off the Riddell District season in a Good Friday blockbuster.

The Tigers will host neighbouring rivals and 2023 grand finalist Woodend-Hesket at Kyneton Showgrounds in a standalone season opener on Friday, March 29.

The match will be Kyneton’s first in the RDFNL after crossing from the Bendigo league in the off-season.

Woodend is the nearest club to Kyneton geographically with the likes of Macedon, Lancefield and Romsey also set to become fierce local rivals.

Kyneton president Hayden Evans was looking forward to the match becoming an annual event.

Round 1 locked in! 🔒
Which game are we most looking forward to?
Full fixture coming soon! pic.twitter.com/gX5DuIPjhA

— Riddell District FNL (@RDFNL) December 11, 2023

“It’s will probably be the biggest game Kyneton has ever seen,” Evans said.

“We’re really excited and it will become a regular fixture between us and Woodend moving forward.

“That was part of the decision to move, to create those local rivalries, bring local footy back to what it should be – local.”

“There’s a real buzz around the club and around the town now, which is great. It’s exciting for the town and the whole community.”

While the Tigers and Hawks will open the season, the remaining Round 1 matches will be played on April 6.

Diggers Rest will begin is premiership defence with a road trip to Lancefield.

Macedon will host Riddell in the annual PUKA UP Cup match at Tony Clarke Reserve, while Wallan will host Romsey in a clash of two of last season’s finalists.

Melton Centrals have unluckily drawn the bye.

RDFNL football operations manager Aaron McLean said.

“The RDFNL are very excited to see Kyneton as part of the competition and look forward to a huge crowd at Kyneton Showgrounds on March 29 to kick off the season,” McLean said.

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“Macedon will continue its traditional Round 1 clash hosting Riddell in the annual PUKA UP Cup to raise funds and awareness for mental health.

“Wallan host Romsey for the CFA Cup while Diggers Rest begin their premiership defence against an improving Lancefield.

“The RDFNL has accommodated specific club requests where possible and we thank clubs for their co-operation and look forward to a big 2024.”

The full 2024 fixture will be released on Wednesday.