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.

Conditions at Toorak provided mixed blessings. The turf under foot was lush, but the rain rendered the lawn slippery. The lights switched on early, as did De La Salle, but a few adjustments saw the Red and Blacks take control.

Senior premiership players Tom Anderson, best afield, and Matt Margin, three goals, showed the way. James Midgley extended an excellent pre-season with a skilful display, while Tyler Scarce showed plenty in his first outing with the Claret and Stout.

Veteran James Woods, a defender of solid repute, hit the scoreboard twice, and with Dan Harangozo and Nick Nunan lapping up the conditions, the Xavs were never in peril once their noses were in front.

Coach's comments:

• Big Matt Smith kicked his first goal in open age footy.
• Luke Barry didn’t miss a beat in his first game back after spending 2016 overseas.
• Hicham Nidam made a welcome return to footy after missing 12 months with a knee injury.

Old Xaverians    1.1-7    5.3-33    10.4-64    13.11-89

De La Salle      2.0-12     2.1-13        2.1-13       2.1-13

Goal Kickers: M. Margin 3, J. Woods 2, T. Parker 2, N. Nunan 2, T. Anderson, D. Harangozo, T. Scarce, M. SmithBest Players: T. Anderson, J. Midgley , D. Harangozo, T. Scarce, J. Woods, M. Margin

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