Playing at Learmonth Reserve in Learmonth, the Coates Talent League outfit led at every change to open its account for 2024.
The Bendigo side kicked away early to open up a nine-point lead at quarter-time, which was extended to 18 points at the main break after keeping the Rebels goalless in the second term, although GWV had only itself to blame, kicking 0.9 for the quarter.
The margin came back to 12 points at the final change after a four-goal-to-two quarter in favour of the Rebels, but the Pioneers steadied in the final term to secure the 18-point victory.
The new-look side featured nine debutants on the day, including Echuca United’s Nash Ramage, while fellow Murray league club Moama was also well represented, with Mitch Bell, Jobe Shanahan and Lachie Hogan all earning spots for round one.
Bell, playing on the wing, featured among the goals, as did Shanahan, who was named at centre half-forward, with the pair each kicking one major, while Hogan featured heavily through the midfield.
Crafty Echuca forward Tom Evans finished with two goals after starting in the forward pocket and was among the Pioneers’ best on the day.
Leitchville-Gunbower’s James Barrat returned to the side following an injury-interrupted 2023 and made his presence felt immediately, bagging three goals from full-forward, the most of any Bendigo player, while also being named in the best.
The Pioneers will travel to Shepparton on Good Friday for a big clash against the Murray Bushrangers at Deakin Reserve, with the Bushies also recording a round one win, prevailing by 27 points over the Tassie Devils.
