TWO of country football's powerhouse sides have restored the status quo after suffering surprise defeats last week.
Golden Square, which had a 30-game winning streak halted by Strathfieldsaye in Round 2 of the Bendigo League, returned to the winners' list with a 127-point drubbing of Castlemaine in Round 3.
The Bulldogs, clearly stung by the loss, responded with eight goals to one in the first quarter to put Castlemaine to the sword, 26.9 (165) to 5.8 (38).
It was a similar story in the Riverina League, where Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong put a shock Round 1 loss behind it with a 116-point mauling of Turvey Park.
The Lions appeared a different side after their 40-game winning streak was brought to an end by Coolamon last week.
They notched their first win of the season to restore hopes of a fifth consecutive flag.
Albury set for revenge
BIG hitter Albury will be looking to restore some pride when it meets cross-town rivals North Albury in the Ovens and Murray League today.
The Tigers, three-time reigning premiers, shocked fans when they lost to usual cellar-dwellers Myrtleford last round.
The Ovens and Murray League is one of five country competitions continuing with the tradition of Anzac Day matches, despite it falling midweek.
Other leagues playing today are Geelong, Yarra Valley Mountain District, Western Border and Wimmera.
All leagues will make a donation to their local RSL to mark the occasion.
