Castles' tally in the 49-point win was more than any other Riverina League team combined could manage last Saturday as strong winds took their toll.

He has now accumulated 21 goals in three games as the Goannas improved their winless streak to start the season to four.

"I was very crook and nearly didn't play. But I'm glad I did," he said.

"It was a good win by the boys. We stuck to the game plan and the results come with that. They're quality, but credit to us.

"We're only going to get better each week if we keep sticking to our structures and everything Rowey (coach Jeremy Rowe) is saying.

"It was good with the wind, I was lucky enough to snag a few at that end so that was the main thing."

Castles kicked seven goals in four games in last year's AFL Riverina Championship, but spent a lot of time in the ruck and made his Goannas debut on a wet day against Turvey Park.

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But he said he's far more comfortable in the set up now he's had some time to train with the side and work out the strengths of his teammates.

"Last year was more not knowing my teammates, what foot they kick with and how far they kick. As I get to know them each week it makes it easier," he said.

"It's very nice to see the midfield get it and I can just go, they know where I'm going to lead."

Castles said their defence, which did a fine job locking down the Lions' talented forwards, have been the unsung heroes.

"Every week they're doing their job and shutting down every forward that's coming at them," he said.

"Then it rebounds to the midfield and it's the hard running from behind that gets it to us (forwards), and we're happy."

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