Momentum is building for Epping in division 3 of the Northern Football League.
Last year’s grand finalists haven’t started the season as they would have liked but have still won five of the opening seven matches.
Against Mernda on Saturday, the Pingers were determined not to suffer a repeat of their 25-point smashing in round one.
The Pingers jumped out of the blocks and took advantage of kicking with the wind, booting six goals to none in the first quarter.
They outscored the Demons in every quarter to run away to a 13.11 (89)-4.7 (31) victory.
Pingers’ coach Greg Whitcroft said he was pleased with how his side had developed since round one.
“In the first game they [Mernda] were far too good and the scoreline flattered us,” he said.
“I think we have improved.
“There was a big wind on Saturday and it never stopped all day.
“In the second and fourth quarters, when we were defending while they had the wind, we outscored them and then matched them.
“It set up the game.”
Christopher Chilcott kicked three goals for the Pingers, while Shane Wood continued his good work in defence.
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Josh Stavely was best on ground.
“Our midfield is starting to pick up,” Whitcroft said. “We got off to a slow start but the midfield has got on top the last three weeks and are giving us first use of the ball.
“They’re starting to gel and understand how I like things.”
Whitcroft said he was thrilled to see the likes of Jordan Wilkins and Jason Stavely thriving at the higher level.
He was also impressed with how Paul Dempsey responded to the move to centre half-back.
He said the key now for the Pingers is to maintain their consistency. They have a bye this week because of the interleague match against the Mornington Peninsula Nepean League.
“All the young guys are improving and the trick is to close the gap between their best and worst,” Whitcroft said.
“We’re 5-2 and sitting pretty. We have a few sore players so the bye comes at a good time.”
In other division 3 matches, South Morang’s good form continued with a massacre of Kilmore. The Lions had 43 scoring shots to 12 in the 22.21 (153)-6.6 (42) win.
Kane Maghamez kicked six goals.
In division 1, Bundoora suffered its first loss since round 1, West Preston Lakeside kicking 10 goals to six in the second half to win 13.11 (89)-12.4 (76).
Whittlesea remains winless after losing 12.11 (83)-8.12 (60) to Greensborough.
In division 2, Lalor defeated Panton Hill and Thomastown lost to Hurstbridge.
Tara Murray
