After spending several years in the Dragons inner sanctum, Scott Stewart stepped out of rugby league legend Mick Cronin's giant shadow and into the spotlight with Gerringong on Sunday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Stewart had been part of the development and welfare staff with the NRL club at WIN Stadium, before taking charge of the Lions after Cronin, who left with a Group Seven premiership, retired from the job.
Taking on last year's grand final rivals Warilla at Cec Glenholmes Oval, Stewart's reign started in style with a tough 28-20 triumph.
"I was a bit nervous coming in, I knew the pressure would be on and had plenty of people telling me the pressure was on," Stewart said.
"It was good to get that one out of the way and now we've a week off and can reassess and go into Nowra. It was our first game, we know we can get better. I was happy with the defence, the attack we'll have to work on, but it'll come on as we go."
Warilla had led 10-8 at half-time, with star recruit Cameron Vazzoler sparking the Gorillas, but Gerringong took control after the break.
Read more: Warriors snap Dragons winning streak
It came as the Shellharbour derby ended in a dramatic draw on Sunday.
Declan Morrissy scored for the Sharks in the final moments, before Chris Browne converted to leave the game locked at 22-all.
The Stingrays had celebrated Group Seven president Scott McLaurin's contribution to the club by naming the Flinders Field grandstand after him.
Elsewhere, Kiama beat Milton-Ulladulla 32-14 and Jamberoo overpowered Albion Park 32-6.