Reigning Thirds premier Old Xaverians began their title defence with a strong win over Old Melburnians at Sportscover on Saturday.
Sam Shaw gets the win in his first time out as U19 coach, but will be seeking improvement from his charges in the weeks ahead.
The Crocs had to settle for a draw after some eleventh hour heroics by the Four Blues, and will now wait at least a fortnight for its first season win.
There was thunder, lightning and plenty of rain at Toorak Park on Saturday night, but the real storm came when the weather cleared and the Red and Black machine hit top gear.
It took a quarter or so to acclimatise to conditions and teammates less than familiar, but the Reserves stole the initiative and shut down the visitors to record a comfortable win on Opening Day 2017.
The crowds came out to watch the women in action for the very first time, and they did not disappoint.
Season 2017 presents many challenges for Old Xaverians, not least of which will be the defence of the LA Adamson Cup, snatched by the Red 'n' Blacks on that tense Sunday afternoon last September.
A strong effort from Pat Allan's team, who hold on to second spot after an even four-quarter effort.
