Saints begin premiership defence with convincing win over Tigers

ST Mary’s have kicked off their premiership defence in emphatic style, opening their 2026 Geelong Football League season with a 69-point win over Colac under lights at Central Reserve.

In a rematch of last season’s preliminary final, the Saints shook off a slow start and piled on 32 scoring shots to cruise to victory on enemy territory.

The Tigers took a six-point lead into the quarter time break, but only managed three more goals for the rest of the match.

Returning key player Harry Benson was named St Mary’s best, while former Geelong Cat and new recruit Xavier Ivisic impressed with three goals.

A second-half masterclass saw South Barwon claim a 44-point win over Grovedale at McDonald Reserve.

The Swans were challenged early by a Tigers outfit that boasted a wealth of talent including former AFL forward Nathan Kreuger and current Werribee VFL gun Cooper Whyte.

But, a 10-goals-to-three second half saw them push past their opponent and break the game open.

St Albans delivered the most one-sided result of the round, thrashing North Shore by 122 points. Tom Higgins led the way with six goals as the Supersaints extended their advantage at every change.

Leopold bounced back from a disappointing opening round performance to overcome Geelong West by 27 points at the freshly renamed Scaada Stadium.

The Lions were tested early but held the lead at each break against a determined Giants side.

Bell Park, Newtown & Chilwell and St Joseph’s had the bye.

This weekend will see some exciting early-season clashes between finals contenders, with the Eagles set to face Joeys and South Barwon to host Bell Park.

Elsewhere, Grovedale will host St Albans, Geelong West will host Colac and North Shore will host Leopold, while St Mary’s will enjoy a bye.