The Magpies stormed out of the blocks to lead by 10 goals at quarter-time and never looked like losing with shooters Chelsea Marks, Sarah Hooper and Bianca Ely creating havoc.

Coach Louise Byrne said she couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the season.

“It was superb,” Byrne said.

“All the girls played their role really well and we have definitely set our sights on making a big improvement this season.

“We have been playing in the regional state league in Shepparton for seven weeks and that’s helped the team get fit and gel together.

“I don’t think we have started the season with a win before so it’s great for the team’s confidence.

“The nine girls all played really well.”

Marks, who was recruited from Ovens and King league club North Wangaratta, led the way with 32 goals, while Hooper, 16, was outstanding with 19 from 20 shots.

Ely also had her moments with seven goals in a half.

Youngster Chay Crimmins was another Wangaratta player to shine against quality opposition.

Corowa-Rutherglen lifted its game after half-time with Simone Hanrahan prominent but the damage had been done on the scoreboard and the Roos were only playing for pride.

“We have had a few new girls come in, but a couple have pushed up from the lower grades and are doing really well,” Byrne said.

“Some good young players are pushing through.”

North Albury finished strongly to defeat a new-look Wangaratta Rovers 47-32.

The Hoppers led by only five goals at the final change, but stormed home through the efforts of Sarah-Jane Farrell, Sophie Robertson and speed machine Kim Opdam.