Women's cup champions Wangaratta await huge test against United

While they didn't have it all their own way during the league campaign, finishing third, the Devils clicked at the business end, taking down league champions St Pats in the decider to capture the silverware.

Former captain Mel Scott has taken on the coaching reins and is expecting a huge challenge in the season opener against Albury United at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday.

"United have always been strong, physically and on the pitch they're strong, so it will be a good game to start off with," Scott said.

ALSO IN SPORT:

"We lost a few players from last year (including star striker Bianca Mulqueen), so it's just about getting the new ones connected with the ones that are there."

United has appointed a young leadership group to take charge of the senior squad this season, including dynamo Abbey Collins.

"We enjoy playing the harder games and Wang is always strong, so we're looking forward to it," Collins said.

"I think we've still got a very strong mix this year with the older girls, the new girls and some of the younger ones coming through."

St Pats take on newcomers Albury Hotspurs, who have returned to senior football after two seasons in the reserves, while Melrose squares off with Boomers.