A CLASH between local rivals Neerim-Neerim South and Buln Buln will headline round one as the Ellinbank District Football Netball League kicks off on Saturday.
With the two clubs battling it out for the Neerim District Community Bank cup each year, the competition on the football field and netball court promises to be intense.
The senior football clash should be competitive.
The Lyrebirds finished last year's season third with a 7-3 record and right in the hunt before COVID-19 restrictions put paid to any hope of completing the 2021 season.
While Neerim-Neerim South finished in seventh last year with a 5-5 record, there is no doubt the Cats played below their potential and will be looking to climb the ladder in 2022.
Another local rivalry to kick off the season sees Nilma-Darnum host Yarragon in the battle for the Hughes-Orgill Cup.
The Cup was struck upon the Panthers' entry to the EDFNL competition, honouring long-serving club volunteers Neil Hughes and the late Clive Orgill.
While Yarragon finished a difficult season winless last year, the Panthers have recruited well and should take it up to the Bombers, who finished in eighth with three wins last year.
Early premiership favourites Ellinbank will face a test first up when they travel to Poowong.
The Bankers finished last season undefeated and by all reports appear to be strong again. However, the Magpies have been improving year on year and could be ready to take another step after being in the mix for the top five last year.
Longwarry will travel to Nyora.
While the Saints managed just the one win last year, the Crows will be looking to start in strong form as they eye off another finals appearance.
Lang Lang will host Catani in a night match to complete the round.
Lang Lang finished last season in fifth and in the hunt for the return for finals, a feat they will be looking to replicate this season.
A strong showing at home against the Blues, who finished ninth with three wins last year, will see the Tigers on the way to achieving that goal.
Trafalgar, who finished second last year with an 8-2 record, will have the bye.