Receivers Axsivier Lawrence and Jesse McPhail caught three touchdowns each from quarterback Judah Knip on Saturday night, as the Central Alberta Buccaneers beat the Lloydminister Vandals 58-14 in their home opener in Lacombe.

The team improves to 2-0 on the season after the victory.

It’s a different team from last year’s squad, which went undefeated in the AFL before losing the championship game to Fort McMurray.

For one, they have a new head coach, with Fred Knip taking over for Devon Hand.

As well, Buccaneers defensive back Tylor Johanneson says the roster features a number of fresh faces.

“(They’re) super-young but super-coachable kids. We’ve got guys who are like sponges.  They’re asking questions. They’re asking the right questions. They want to learn, they want to get better. They’re enjoying being here; they’re enjoying coming to practice,” Johanneson says.

(Axsivier Lawrence caught three touchdown passes from quarterback Judah Knip during the Central Alberta Buccaneers' home opener on June 3.)

The Vandals were kept scoreless for nearly three quarters and Johanneson credits the different defensive schemes brought in under new head coach Fred Knip.

“It definitely is a bend-but-don’t-break defence. A lot of kids who just fly around the ball. A lot of guys that just want to go make tackles and make plays,” he says.

The Buccaneers will host the Calgary Gators next Saturday.

(Buccaneers quarterback Judah Knip scrambles away from the Vandals defence on June 3.)