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Lions open season with easy win

Reigning premiers Subiaco made the perfect start in their quest for the first hat-trick of premierships in club history with a comprehensive 40-point victory over South Fremantle in the 2008 season opener at Fremantle Oval on Thursday night.

The Lions lead from start to finish and were rarely challenged winning, 19.12 (126) to 12.14 (86).

Talented forward, Blake Broadhurst was the star for the victors taking ten marks and kicking six goals in an outstanding display. Five of his majors came before half time and he set up a number of scoring opportunities in a dominant third term.

It was an even team performance from Subiaco with the likes of Jarrad Schofield, Shaun Hildebrandt, Kyal Horsley and Phil Read, in his first game for his new club, controlling the midfield and Broadhurst and David Mapleston (three goals, nine marks) providing strong targets in the forward line.

As always the Lions’ defence, led by Aiden Parker, Darren Rumble and Ben Keevers, was tight and provided plenty of rebound.

Many South Fremantle players appeared a little underdone, in particular James Walker, Hayden North and Keren Ugle, all of whom will no doubt find touch over the coming weeks.

New recruit, Rob Haddrill was best for the Bulldogs, restricting 2007 Bernie Naylor Medallist, Brad Smith to just two goals. He received support from Kris Miller, Toby McGrath and Paul Duffield, while Josh Head and Callum Wilson began the game in sparkling form only to fade out as the game progressed.

The Subiaco victory serves as a significant warning to the rest of the competition considering players the ilk of Caine Hayes, Chris Hall, Allistair Pickett, Chad Cossom, Adam Hay and Ben Randall were all missing.

The Lions now face Claremont in the Grand Final replay next Friday night at Medibank Stadium while South Fremantle tackle arch rivals East Fremantle in a derby clash at East Fremantle Oval on Saturday.

David Lindsay