With both teams winning comfortably on Opening Day, there were high expectations of an exciting contest at Toorak Park between these traditional rivals. The crowds came back to the grand old ground in anticipation, but went home with a thought that only one of today's combatants is a likely contender for September action.

The Caledonians began well enough, but beyond quarter time, the Red 'n' Blacks dominated, with only some atrocious goal kicking from the home team preventing a substantially bigger win.

The Xavs' back six was almost impassable, with Jordan Kelly managing the unit. He and Alex Trigar were the standouts here, but all turned in solid performances. Across the middle, the skipper Marcus Stavrou and the wingster Campbell Lane had the ball on a string. It stated, of course, at the ruck contests, where Jason Holmes won many taps and offered his marauding teammates many opportunities.

In the front half, Julian Soccio was the early star and Matt Merlo's contribution came a little later. Charlie MacIsaac had some terrific moments, but the lively Michael Batten topped them all with his dash, poise and ball-winning ability. He kicked four and it might have just as easily been seven.

To its credit, Scotch kept battling and added a couple of late goals against a strong tide. While the visitors looked off the pace somewhat today, they will relish the return to their home patch, where they are an historically better-performed team.

As for Xavs, now training back at Toorak Park, there is an immediate trip to TH King to meet St Kevin's, a venue and an opponent that have not been the most hospitable these past few years.

Goal Kickers: M. Batten 4, J. Soccio 3, D. Symeopoulos 2, C. Beetham 2, G. Valles 2, C. MacIsaac, R. Bewick, M. Merlo, T. Anderson
Best Players: J. Kelly, M. Stavrou, M. Batten, D. Robinson, M. Merlo, J. Soccio