From the outset – an Andrew Hooper goal polishing off a clever, quick passage of play and the next four goals to clever work from goal-sneak Robin Nahas – this was about the Selkirk Roosters getting their style and methods right in this Victorian Football League game. And the Roosters did not relent at Eureka Stadium, either.

Roosters coach Gerard FitzGerald said his team was on the right track, playing the right brand of football.

“If you’re genuinely driven by process, then the scoreboard becomes irrelevant,” FitzGerald said. “The score is a by-product of what you’re doing and is history, really. You need to stay organised in how you’re playing and the scoreboard will be okay – provided you know how you’re going to get there.”

The Roosters turning point was after a string of heavy losses, culminating in a round eight game against Sandringham. While they were up across most target areas, the Blues still got the better of the Roosters in clearances by 14. But the Blues only nailed two goals, struggling to go inside their forward-50.

Carlton’s Andrew Walker chalked up 21 touches in a limited return from six weeks on the sidelines while Liam Hoy was strong on Blue Liam Jones. The North Melbourne-listed Nahas booted seven goals for the Roosters from 16 touches. Nahas kicked six first-half majors, setting up his teammates in the second.

Roosters’ debutant Sam Hooper made an impressive debut. Hooper, playing as 23rd man, had a big impact in the third quarter when he booted his first goal five minutes in and two more than term. FitzGerald said the club was proud of Hooper’s relentless drive to succeed after a knee injury in the opening round last year ended his TAC Cup campaign with the Rebels. Former Roosters’ captain Michael Searl presented Hooper the number 10 jumper – the number premiership captain Shaune Moloney wore.

Young Rooster Jono Lanyon, a late call-up, had a breakout game with 26 disposals, nine tackles and five clearances. Lanyon continues to push for selection and FitzGerald said he always impressed with his hard, honest approach to the game.

The Roosters will monitor injures to forward James Keeble (hamstring) and heavy knocks to defender Luke Kiel and midfielder Nick Peters.