THE Denman Devils kicked off their Newcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League under-18 campaign with an emphatic 46-0 triumph over the Kotara Bears at the weekend.
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The youngsters, co-coached by Paul and Brady Benkovic, surged to a 26-0 lead at the break and refused to let their rivals find any groove in the second half.
Aberdeen recruit Tommy Dixon led the way with a double, while Andrew Parkes, Ned Chapman, Cooper Linde, Brock Greacen, Alex Dahmes, Nick Coombes and Adam Smith also posted tries.
Greacen booted three goals, with Parkes and Hunter Ball piloting the ball through the uprights, too.
The result could have been even greater, however Ball, Dixon, Chapman and Alex McNeill each missed difficult conversion attempts.
Paul Benkovic admitted it was a "good hit-out", first up, for the Devils at the Denman Recreational Ground on Saturday.
"The boys were extremely keen to run onto the field again," he said.
"They're a very enthusiastic bunch of lads.
"Now, we need to regroup and switch on for the clash against Stockton (away).
"However, that encounter might be up in the air.
"With the Singleton Greyhounds pulling out, and rumours of North Tamworth joining in, the draw could change.
"If that happens, it will make things interesting, especially for the sides travelling up north."
Benkovic said the scoreline wasn't the only pleasing aspect of the victory.
"One of the main positives was the guys' discipline," he explained.
"On more than a few occasions things could've blown up.
"But, they restrained themselves.
"My goal is to ensure it [discipline] stays that way.
"This season's a good test for us."