Lopsided results are hardly new. But a conversation about football's future stepped up a level after Great Western defeated Ararat Eagles by 509 points on July 20. It wasn't a record, but it added to a challenging period for the Eagles. They held their heads high, while the Lions copped flak - including an abusive phone call to the football manager's own home and barrages on social media questioning their morals. The reality was the Lions showed a great respect to the Eagles as they left the field, standing in a guard of honour and shouting the beers post-match.

It came weeks after the Eagles forfeited to Tatyoon when six players arrived to play.

Laharum's 312-point loss to Harrow-Balmoral at the weekend - the biggest loss in the Horsham District league in 10 years - also prompted conversation after the Demons' chairman suggested a mercy rule or division strategy to even the competition. What played out - again, on social media - was attacks towards players; and attacks towards this masthead for its reporting integrity.

The reaction to that story has been significant - and not for the right reasons. A genuine conversation shouldn't be denigrated by social media spite. Stick to the facts.

Instead of criticising a clubman for looking to options about an issue facing Wimmera football, let it open a wider conversation about longevity of the game.

Instead of criticising a reporter for doing their job - that being, reporting the facts to inform, educate or entertain readers - engage with the media to continue a productive discussion. Despite claims this week, this masthead does not embellish issues or chase a headline for a reaction - it responsibly reflects what people are, and should be, talking about.

Let's focus on the actual issue at hand - the longevity and viability of country football in the Wimmera - so we have a game to play, celebrate and watch into the future.

Jessica Grimble, editor