Lawless, 23, was a surprise starter in the Bears’ 135-point hiding of Rennie in the Picola and District south-east league at Rennie on Saturday, with coach Jeremy O’Brien delighted to have his 2012 and 2013 premiership teammate on board.

“It all really fell into place late last week,” O’Brien said.

“Nick’s a Tungamah boy, he wasn’t able to do a pre-season with Yarra and the cards just fell our way.

“We certainly weren’t going to knock him back.”

Lawless was set to play for Pascoe Vale last season but was ruled out after foot surgery.

The loss of Lawless comes only weeks after Marcus McMillan retired from the Ovens and Murray, while Brad O’Connor’s playing future also remains in limbo.

It is believed both could find their way to Strathmerton.

Despite taking an under-strength line-up into Saturday’s match against Rennie, Tungamah didn’t miss a beat as spearhead Ash Saunders thrived on endless opportunities.

He kicked nine goals and was fed by Adam Dodd, Bodhi Butts and Drew Haebich.

“We played well,” O’Brien said.

“There were a few missing with a wedding and things like that, but the boys were good.”

In the PDFL’s north-west league, an eight-goal bag from Jerilderie’s Aaron Purcell wasn’t enough to bring down Strathmerton.

The Bulldogs won by seven points despite the best efforts of Purcell, former Thurgoona player Daniel Kannenberg, Andrew May and Luke Bryce.

Berrigan defeated Blighty by 20 points, Tocumwal edged out Deniliquin Rovers and Picola United crushed Yarroweyah.