Stawell Warriors impress in practice match

After an ordinary hitout against St Arnaud the week prior to Easter, Warriors had plenty of room for improvement and against a tough opposition, they have done just that.

Terang Mortlake were a well drilled and skilled team, but for the most part of the match, Stawell was able to match them, giving Warriors a huge confidence boost leading into round one of the Wimmera Football League.

Coach Brad Cassidy was pleased with the output of his players.

"By no means was it flawless, but there was the general improvement in all areas, which we are happy about," Cassidy said.

"There are still plenty of things to work on, but we are heading in the right direction. The game proved that to us."

While the scoreboard read 4.8.32 to 6.6.42 in favour of Terang Mortlake, the inside 50s, shots on goal and stoppages were all even.

"One thing we need to focus on this week is our forward structure," Cassidy said.

"We need to make sure our key forwards have enough space to work into. I'll be focusing on isolating and separating."

Stawell got on the front foot throughout the match and looked the better team when the game was played at a high tempo.

"We looked better at high tempo," Cassidy said.

"We ran the ball well, but most importantly, our decision making was where it needed to be. Now we just need to execute."

Stawell's back six look to be well settled but the transition from their backline to their midfield at time looked scratchy.

The midfield group were better for their first run together and assistant coach Brad Thomas looked to fit in well.

With the inclusion of Thomas, other players stood up and responded well to their leader.

Ruckman Kyle Hendy got through his three quarters unscathed as did the rest of the team.

The practice match provided Warriors with plenty of positives to take into Saturday's game.