Lavington's former gun basketballer Maddy Plunkett stars in netball win

And Panthers' coach Catherine Wood also started with a win in her first match.

"It was good that we were able to build and compose ourselves and when the ball got turned over (in our favour), we were able to finish it," Wood offered.

While it was a superb start by the newcomers, it was a couple of regulars who starred in the win.

Wing attack Maddi Lloyd was terrific, while wing defence Laura Hueske was miserly.

"They both have lots of pace, Laura was great in the defensive end, putting pressure on her opponents and Maddi is a fantastic attacking player, getting good leads and also providing support for team-mates around the ring," Wood said.

Lavington finished third after the last regular season in 2019, but didn't win through to the preliminary final, so the bulk of the squad won't lack motivation.

Plunkett's height will add an enormous advantage in attack and her time playing high quality basketball, both in Australia and in the US college system, will stand her in good stead in a new sport.

The Panthers appear stronger than two years ago, so a top three finish will be on the agenda.

Meanwhile, Rovers are coming off a second-last finish but, in a positive sign, Carly Perso was one of their best players, along with Jenna McLeod.

The Hawks have a host of exciting young defenders, so the club will look to that talent to repel the stronger attacking units.

Meanwhile, Sarah Senini started life as a Pigeon with a 36-23 victory over Albury at Albury Sportsground on Saturday.

The former Lavington star was the game-high scorer with 20 goals with Hannah Symes and Barooga recruit Sharni Hazelman ensuring she had plenty of opportunities.

Bridget Cassar made her presence felt with 11 goals as Yarrawonga opened up a match-winning break in the second quarter.

Albury was best served by Emily Rodd.

The league will host its first full round over the Easter weekend.

Wodonga Raiders, who finished sixth in 2019, will host premiers Wangaratta on Good Friday.

There's two games the following day, with runner-up Corowa-Rutherglen home to Wodonga, while Rovers meet another finals side in Albury.

And on Sunday, Yarrawonga is home to Lavington, while Myrtleford hosts North Albury.

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The latter two both missed finals last year.

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