STAWELL Warriors relied on their youngest players to get the job done when they took on Dimboola at Dimboola Recreation Reserve on Saturday.
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The Warriors extended their lead at every change to win 18.13 (121) to Dimboola’s 6.15 (51).
With a growing list of injuries, Stawell delved into its junior ranks to fill the void, and the youngsters did not disappoint.
Stawell coach Brad Thomas continues to blood juniors in the senior line up.
“The pressure the kids bring is incredible,” Thomas said.
“If the kids are in a good environment then there is no reason why they can not succeed. The leadership group give them confidence and they are playing good football.”
Ethan Marrow starred in his first senior hit-out, with fellow young guns Koby Stewart, Jack Walker, Jesse Portelli, Jack Taurau and Ben Taylor also playing well.
All are under 18.
Marrow kicked two goals and was named third best on debut.
Marrow was rewarded with a senior game after giving his all over the off season.
“A senior game was a reward for effort and workrate,” Thomas said.
“He slotted in really well and so did Ash (DeClifford). They will both hold their spot next week.”
Ash DeClifford also made his senior debut and proved his mettle.
The Warriors had contributors all over the ground in their 70-point win.
Jack Musgrove was on target in the forward line with seven goals, helped by some classy deliveries from Stawell’s midfield.
Tom Eckel continued his good form with three goals from the midfield in a best-on-ground performance.
Jack Beaton was again able to give the Warriors first use of the football while also hitting the scoreboard with two majors.
“It is really good at the minute with players playing their role,” Thomas said.
“Our midfield got on top early thanks to Jack (Beaton) and Tom (Eckel) and took the game aways from Dimboola. We could have gone on with it but we dropped off in the last.”
Stawell were fatigued when the final siren sounded with previous injuries taking their toll.
Injured players Cam Kimber and James Delahunty still remain a couple of weeks away, while Jesse Poulton, Shane Field and Jono Pollock were also omitted for the weekend’s match.
Thomas continued to rest his sore body and took advantage of the opportunity to coach from the side line.
“I love coaching from the sideline,” Thomas said.
“It was a great opportunity to really knuckle down and work with the kids. This is why I signed up for this job.”
Dimboola had its fair share of the football for the afternoon, but was unable to convert in front of goal.
Lachlan Watts was Dimboola’s best on ground, while Jayden Kuhne and Michael Pohlner also battled hard.
In other Wimmera matches Horsham Saints upset undefeated Minyip Murtoa and Warrack Eagles defeated Nhill Tigers. Stawell will have a tough match against Eagles this weekend.