Sport
10 April, 2026
Pemiers start without key recruit in opening clash with Redbacks
PREMIERS Calder United will be without its boom Loddon Valley recruit Justin Laird for Saturday’s opening North Central football clash against Wedderburn.
Laird was suspended for striking in Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s last-round win over Calivil and still has a week to serve.
A blow for the Demons could be a boon for the Redbacks in the first of three meeting with Calder this season;
On Saturday the Redbacks travel to Nullawil, knowing a strong performance is needed to confirm the widely held view that the team is poised to climb the ladder.
The Redbacks have recruited strongly, and despite losing leading goal kicker Mitch Jensen are confident they have the firepower to contend in 2026.
Wedderburn is also working on a “smokey recruit” for round one, but coach Tom Metherell was unwilling to give any hints.
Ruckman Tyler Curtis has joined Wedderburn from South Mildura, and he comes with a powerful reputation and VFL experience, and if he can give first use to the Redbacks’ quality midfield they will be a serious threat.
Metherell said Curtis played in the practice match against North Bendigo “and he made a huge difference.
“His leadership is outstanding – he was really good with the boys in his first hit out.”
Also arriving at Donaldson Park is key defender Rory Lehmann, who won a SANFL flag with Woodville West Torrens only three years ago and he also has played in the VFL with Coburg.
Metherell said only veteran Danny Benaim was unavailable this weekend.