Recruits dazzle in Point Cook’s season opener

Dazzling young guns, huge performances from recruits and club history were just some elements of Point Cook’s statement win on Good Friday. Here’s who impressed.

We knew Point Cook would improve.

But Good Friday’s 20.15 (135) to 6.7 (43) win over local rivals Hoppers Crossing was a sign of intent.

The Bulldogs have been arguably the most talked about team in the Western Region league during the off-season after an impressive recruiting haul which included former AFL players and local footy stars.

And they passed their first test, showcasing why many people believe the Bulldogs will charge up the ladder this season.

It was also the first time Point Cook has beaten Hoppers in club history.

There were plenty of new faces in the Point Cook line-up with six players making their debut in the senior side including Sani Egan, Cameron Kizan, Paul Tsapatolis, Luke Dahlhaus, Shaun Wyatt and Simon Deery.

Paul Tsapatolis was best for Point Cook in his first game.

Even new coach Clay Smith, the former Western Bulldogs midfielder, said he was a little shocked by what his side had produced.

“I didn’t know what to expect (going into the game),” Smith said.

“I thought our fitness really stood out and it allowed us to break the game open. There’s been a different feeling around the club lately and it’s one I’m really enjoying.

“Guys like Jimmy Botsaris and Sani are bringing great energy, especially into the forward line, and it flows through the rest of the group.

“The new guys have fit in really well, the boys love them and we’re excited to watch them grow.”

Former Geelong listed big man Tsapatolis was named best afield in a dominant display against an undermanned Warriors outfit.

Hoppers’ first choice ruckman Joel Bentley limped off with a lower leg injury in the first quarter and was seen on crutches at halftime.

It left young duo Oliver Correia and Riley Fisher, who usually plays a midfielder, to shoulder the load and while they battled it was a matchup Tsapatolis was able to exploit.

“Paul is still only a young kid and he’s a giant of a lad,” Smith said of his new ruckman.

“He controlled the stoppages and was able to give our midfielders first use. But his work at ground level for a big fella was really impressive, he was never out of the contest.”

Luke Dahlhaus with Clay Smith before the game.

Dahlhaus proved he’ll be more than handy at this level, impressing with his cleanliness around the contest.

His final quarter goal sparked one a sensational celebration with his teammates coming from everywhere to congratulate him.

“Lukey has been awesome,” Smith said of his 2016 Western Bulldogs premiership teammate.

“He’s just a bloke’s bloke who loves to play footy. That celebration showed what it’s all about.”

Elsewhere for the Dogs, Deery impressed down back while young guns Max Rouvray (five goals) and Josh Kuppen (four) led the way on the scoreboard.

For Hoppers Crossing, captain Liam McMahon battled all day while Fisher did some nice things in the ruck and around the ground.