In a Saturday afternoon showdown, the Roosters proved too strong for the Panthers, running out a 28-0 result at the Bega Recreation Ground. 

Roosters spokesman David Armstrong said Bega coach Scott Barton had his team “well drilled”, holding their opposition to a nil scoreline in both rounds played. 

“They’re really well drilled and the depth they’re adding to the club is tremendous.”

Mr Armstrong praised the defensive efforts of the Roosters, who were certainly not handed the win easily by the Candelo-Bemboka outfit. 

The Panthers made some good  runs up the middle, but lost hard-working forward Trent Rollason to a shoulder injury early in the piece. 

The Roosters welcomed a burst of speed into the line up this year with the addition of Blake Grant, the return of Scott Hay and Lee Fuller stepping from the wings into a more central role. 

The speed wreaked havoc for the Panthers in defense as Cael Kelly locked in the early points with a left flank run to find the line just five minutes in. 

Josh Shepherdson also provided plenty of impact out of the halves, while brother Shannon made some decisive runs from the centres.

Hay also proved handy with the boot, slotting four of five conversion attempts despite a howling wind on the day.  

Brock Ringland, Jory Taylor and Nathan Moon all had some good hit ups for the Panthers, while captain-coach Jake McDonald directed play well.