Although Burgess was pleased with the performance of the club’s youngsters, he said the Bombers were hard hit by unavailability.

“We played well and came through without any injuries,” Burgess said.

“That’s all you can ask for.

“Kyabram had six or eight involved in a wedding and were a bit undermanned but it was still a good hit-out for us.”

Liam Harrington was effective across half-back for Myrtleford while Lachie Dale and Christian Burgess dominated on ball and drifted forward to kick three goals each.

Youngsters Max Stevens, Darcy Chellew, Will Shem and Will Quirk also showed promise.

Myrtleford take on Benalla this weekend.

“It will be another step up,” Burgess said.

“They will be well organised and hopefully we can continue to build over the pre-season.” 

Wodonga Raiders put a dent into North Albury’s promising pre-season by dismantling the Hoppers by 101 points at Sandy Creek.

Recruit Sam Stubbs provided a focal point with three goals while youngsters Jarrod Ardern, Jack Haugen and Cooper Daly were also effective.

“Both sides had a few out but I thought our kids were really good,” coach Daryn Cresswell said.

“Jarrod Ardern was outstanding with 2.4 and Jarrod Hodgkin was pretty good as well.”

Hume league club Jindera defeated Corowa-Rutherglen with star Bulldog recruit Trent Castles kicking eight goals.

A depleted Wangaratta line-up accounted for Wodonga at Wodonga Senior Secondary College with Daniel Sharrock playing well for the victors.

Yarrawonga and the Digby Morrell-coached West Coburg played out a tight tussle at Yarrawonga.

Young Pigeon Ronan Pritchard suffered concussion.