WRFL: Liam Montrose, Nathan Johnson star for Albanvale against Braybrook

Two Albanvale forwards have made a stunning start to their new partnership with 37 goals in two games as the Cobras look set to be “stronger” than previous seasons.

In just two games, Albanvale may have uncovered one of the most dangerous forward duos in local footy.

Liam Montrose and Nathan Johnson have combined for 37 goals in their last two WRFL Division 3 since the latter arrived at the club.

Johnson, formerly of Geelong and District league side Werribee Centrals, has 20 of those to his name including 14 majors in his debut against Laverton.

Montrose has 24 goals from his first three appearances for the Cobras.

On Saturday, they kicked six goals apiece in their side’s thrilling eight-point win over Braybrook, who entered the game on the back of a five-day break.

And coach Andrew Bryson couldn’t speak higher of the pair’s impact in a short space of time.

“Liam and Nathan have been great additions to our playing group,” he said.

“Liam came to the club with his brother Daniel and their mate Ostinn (Bellingham), who have also been fantastic. He’s already showing us what he can do inside forward 50.

Albanvale’s Liam Montrose takes an athletic mark in front of Braybrook’s Troy Buttigieg. Picture: Andy Brownbill

“Nathan only came across a couple of weeks ago after speaking to a few of his mates at the club — he wanted the chance to play with them again.

“We’re not just playing him close to goal either. On Saturday, we pushed him further up the ground and into the ruck to give us a bit more height.

“I thought it was pivotal to us winning the game.”

Braybrook’s Adam Forth and Albanvale’s Nathan Johnson. Picture: Andy Brownbill

While Johnson and Montrose are winning plenty of praise for their attacking exploits, several other players new to the blue and white stripes are enjoying strong starts to the season.

Brayden Montebruno has kicked 10 goals and been named in the best twice while Matt Taylor has been influential in defence.

Reece Duffield, Jonathan Miller, Daniel Backus and Bobby Saric were also named among the better players on Saturday.

“We feel like we’ve got better balance than previous years,” Bryson said.

“The boys we’ve brought in have balanced us out and given us a stronger side.

“We’ve been on this journey, with the seniors and reserves players, for four years and we’re trying to finish what we set out to achieve (by winning a premiership).”

Daniel Backus was among Albanvale’s better players. Picture: Andy Brownbill

In other Division 3 results, Tarneit (103) won its first game of the season over North Sunshine (18).

Meanwhile, Sunshine Heights (166) made it two wins from two with a big win over Laverton (29).

Albanvale will face another test this week in the form of Heights, meanwhile, Braybrook will enjoy a bye.