But he wasn't expecting the reigning premier to kick seven goals to none in the final quarter to demolish Bright by 90 points in the Ovens and King's opening round on Saturday.

In front of a big crowd, Cleve Hughes dominated with six goals, Steve Williamson had the ball on a string and Carl Groth made a superb return to the club.

Bright trailed by only four points at quarter-time but fell away badly with Bailey Jennings-Allen and Gary Moorcroft solid performers.

Goorambat edged out Tarrawingee by five points, North Wangaratta defeated Moyhu, Benalla All Blacks accounted for King Valley and Bonnie Doon beat Whorouly.