REIGNING North Gippsland league premier Churchill overcame a scrappy start to defeat Gormandale on Saturday, as the football season kicked off in country Victoria.

After unfurling its premiership flag in front of a strong home crowd, Churchill looked off its game in the first half, failing to make the most of its opportunities in front of goal.

But coach Leigh McDonald led a spirited fight back, as the Cougars kicked seven goals to Gormandale's three in the third term to run out 31-point winners.

Dean Jenkins and Nathan McDonald booted four goals apiece for the victors, while Daniel Domaille was Gormandale's only multiple goalkicker, finishing with two.

Sale City opened its season account with a 72-point thumping of Traralgon-Tyers United.

Star recruit Jacob Schuback, who played with major league club Sale last year, slotted seven goals for Sale City in a best-on-ground performance. New coach Nick Hider was also named among the Bulldogs' best.

In the final match, Glengarry booted eight goals to one in the third quarter to defeat Cowwarr by 81 points.

Woodside, Heyfield and Stratford all had the bye.

North Gippsland was the only one of the VCFL's 46 senior competitions to start home-and-away football last weekend.

Another 26 leagues will kick off this weekend.