DARRELL Spencer and Jon Henry will again spearhead the Ovens and Murray’s inter-league campaign.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With the league to play rivals Goulburn Valley, Spencer said there was a sense of “unfinished business”.
“It’s more about the game than the rankings this year,” Spencer said.
“With the GV, it never matters where you are ranked as you just want to win.
“It’s a cross district rivalry and we’re looking for the bragging rights.
“Travelling to Warrnambool and having a win was a good start and I think everyone is really excited about playing the GV.
“They are our closest rival and a great footy comp.”
The venue for the Ovens and Murray and Goulburn Valley league clash in May will only be decided next month.
Although Wangaratta’s Norm Minns Oval has been ruled out due to a VFL fixture, Yarrawonga’s J.C. Lowe Oval is believed to be on the radar.
Spencer said the retention of Marc Almond and Scott Montgomery as assistants was vital.
“They were both on board last year and I thought they were both important to our set up,” he said.
“Marc has a really good knowledge of modern game plans and ‘Monty’ is awesome with the rotation stuff.
“It was important we got that structure right.”
Ovens and Murray general manager Sean Barrett said there was never any question about the re-appointment of the coaches after impressive debuts last season.
“We’re thrilled to have locked these guys away for next year’s blockbuster,” Barrett said.
“They did a fantastic job in a tough away fixture against Hampden and deserve the opportunity against Goulburn Valley.”
The Ovens and Murray and Goulburn Valley have agreed to set the junior age level at under-18s to ensure the format is consistent with both competitions.
Former Wangaratta Rovers mentor Paul Maher will take the reins of the junior squad for a second term after the league’s impressive 22-point victory over Hampden at Warrnambool’s Reid Oval earlier year.
Maher played in the Ovens and Murray and Goulburn Valley leagues.