The pair signed over the weekend in a huge boost to the Panthers’ chances of remaining the biggest challenger to league heavyweights Albury and Yarrawonga next season.

Sharp is a skilful midfielder while Dess is a key forward who returns to the Panthers in the prime of his career after spending the past four seasons with Belconnen.

Lavington coach James Saker expects both recruits to have a huge impact in the Ovens and Murray.

“Matt will complement our midfield nicely and is an area we specifically identified we needed to bolster,” Saker said.

“He will bring an element of class with his skills and delivery into attack which is an aspect we can improve on.

“Andrew is a mobile tall forward who is renowned for his work rate and is a classy finisher.

“His arrival will ease a bit of the pressure on our half-forward line and I don’t think you can have too many hard working forwards.

“They will both bring a fair bit of experience after playing at a higher level which can only help our developing list.”

Sharp won a best and fairest with Benalla in 2010 and was also runner-up in Belconnen’s highest individual honour in 2012.

Dess has represented the NEAFL and has booted 47 and 11 goals in the past two seasons.

Both will relocate to the Border before the Panthers’ season opener which is most likely to be played under lights against Wodonga Raiders on Good Friday.

After losing the past two preliminary finals by a point, Lavington look well poised to remain a finals force with small forward Jay Banks the only confirmed departure.

Veteran midfielders Matt Pendergast and Kade Stevens have committed for another season.

Justin Koschitzke is still considered to be a strong possibility of returning for another season.