Similar to many former Wodonga Bulldogs, Goodman opted to join the Hoppers once calling it quits on his Ovens and Murray career.

Goodman has been reunited with several of his former teammates including Kaine Parsons alongside Jack and Bob Russell.

And while it may only be round four, Goodman is enjoying the change of scenery.

"It's been good and made football a lot more enjoyable," Goodman said.

"Just playing alongside a bunch of good mates and there is a really good vibe amongst the playing group."

The Hoppers were widely touted as the flag favourite at the start of the season.

They have so far lived-up to the hype with victories against Mitta United, Kiewa-Sandy Creek and Wahgunyah.

But Goodman was fully aware that premierships aren't won in April.

"It has been a promising start to the season," he said.

"The focus internally has been to control what we can and not get ahead of ourselves.

"Everybody in the group has bought into what we want to achieve and it's paying dividends for us at the moment.

"Kiewa has been our toughest test to date and it was pleasing to win such a fierce, tight contest."

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Former AFL player Ben Hollands has proven there is no substitute for class in his two matches against Mitta United and Wahgunyah.

Hollands has wound back the clock and booted 13 goals including nine against Wahgunyah last week.

"To be honest I've been blown away that a 42-year-old bloke can run around like he is," Goodman said.

"It's like he has been drinking out of the Fountain of Youth.

"I guess class is permanent and his knowledge and footy brain has been a great asset, especially for the kids."

Tallangatta's flag credentials will come under scrutiny this week when it travels to Barnawartha.

Barnawartha suffered a shock loss to Yackandandah last weekend and undoubtedly will be looking to bounce back strongly at home.

"It's definitely a match we have set ourselves for and it would be nice to get another prized scalp, especially on their home ground," he said.

Goodman arrived at Wodonga in 2018 after playing representative football in Queensland.

The 28-year-old only played a handful of matches in his first season at the kennel after suffering a broken jaw.

Goodman has slotted into the Hoppers' midfield alongside coach Tyson Smith and Joel O'Connell.

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