Gippsland Times | THE East Gippsland football season began on Good Friday with Lakes Entrance stamping its credentials as a side to watch in 2015 with a five-point victory over Paynesville.
Despite the inclusion of former AFL players Trent Knobel and Shane Harvey, Paynesville was unable to withstand a second half from Lakes Entrance, which won 10.11 (71) to 10.6 (66).
Knobel and Harvey had an immediate impact on the game as the home side got away to a handy 12-point lead at quarter-time.
A four-goal to two second quarter from Paynesville put the Gulls in a commanding position as they extended their lead to 23-points at half-time.
Just when the match appeared set to become a blow-out, Lakes came out firing in the second half booting four goals to one.
The Seagulls had narrowed the gap to just four points at the final break and maintained the momentum into the final term, kicking three goals to two to run out five point winners.
Brandon Sauer finished with three goals for Lakes Entrance, while Edward Fletcher kicked two in his first game after arriving from the Tiwi Bombers.
Ryan Holland was Paynesville's best, while Harvey kicked three goals in his guest appearance.
Round one will conclude on Saturday with Stratford hosting Boisdale-Briagolong and Orbost-Snowy Rovers at home to Lindenow in the afternoon, and Wy Yung heading to Lucknow for a night-time clash.
