Castles kicked four goals as the Goannas made a stunning start to their 2021 campaign with a 71-point thrashing of reigning premiers Wagga Tigers at Robertson Oval.

The win comes as the Goannas set out to break the league's longest premiership drought, with the club's last flag coming in the Farrer League back in 1993.

Castles began his time with MCUE in last year's AFL Riverina Championship before deciding to return to the club in a full-time capacity this season.

The straight-shooting key forward did not hold back when setting his sights on the premiership following Saturday night's first-up impressive victory.

"That's the goal from the first day we walked into the footy club this year," Castles revealed.

"Anything less than a premiership, really, is a fail for us. That's what we're aiming for."

Castles was taken by the manner of MCUE's win over Wagga Tigers.

"I actually haven't played in a football side that's moved it that quick, especially from half back rebounding it forward, (it was) just unreal," he said.

"Being such a close group, everyone wants to play for each other and that's the whole reason I'm still here. Just that tight unity group that are all mates but serious on the football field and there's talent in every player."

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Castles said he was not surprised that it did not take time for the new-look Goannas to gel, crediting third-year MCUE coach Jeremy Rowe.

"I just think it's well coached. Jeremy's a great coach. Him implementing all his game plans and that stuff, it all clicks, everyone knows what needs to be done, everybody knows their role and it shows on the footy field," he said.

"I just like how he is serious on the footy field but understands people's personal lives as well, with kids and all that.

"Having that balance is very rare in a coach and he's got that, so it's good."

After spending time in the Hume and Tallangatta Leagues in recent times, Castles is enjoying a new lease on life at MCUE.

"It's just one of those things, I don't really know much about the league, or the players that I play against or that so every week is a different challenge for me," he said.

"Beating Wagga Tigers, who are the top tier, its only upwards for us."

MCUE will be out to back up their first up win when they host Griffith at Mangoplah Sportsground on Saturday.

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