REIGNING premiers Springbank opened its Central Highlands Football League title defence in the best possible fashion on Saturday afternoon.
The Tigers, missing a number of players that featured in last season's grand final win, put the foot down after half time to land a 51-point victory over Dunnstown at Wallace.
Springbank's 14.16 (100) to 7.7 (49) success came after leading by just nine points at the main break.
The Tigers booted 10 goals to four in the third and fourth terms, with spearhead Paul McMahon finishing the day with a bag of five.
Recruit Tyler George was named best for the winners after gaining a late clearance from North Ballarat City.
Meanwhile, Bungaree made it four-straight round one victories over Gordon courtesy of a 21-point triumph on Saturday.
The Demons were led by recruit Christian Elliott and fellow forward Luke Mirtschin, who booted six goals each.
McKay brothers Andy and Brad also managed the same feat in Hepburn's thumping of Clunes, while Will Young sits on top of the goal-kicking chart after kicking nine in Newlyn's easy win over Smythesdale.
