By Tara Murray
Gisborne grinded out a tough win against South Bendigo in the Bendigo Football League on Saturday.
With injuries leaving them short on the bench, the Bulldogs fought the game out to the end, saving their best to last.
While leading all day, the score didn’t blow out until late, with the Bulldogs winning 20.14 (134)-9.9 (63).
Bulldogs playing coach Clinton Young said it was a tough game where they had to work hard to get the win, despite leading by 30 points for most of the game.
“It was a competitive game,” he said.
“There was a bit of rain on Friday, it was a bit muddy.
“I’m proud of how we fought it out. We didn’t play our best. We only had one rotation in the final quarter. We had to grind it out.”
Ethan Minns starred in the midfield with Young saying he was getting better and better each week. Tim Walsh was the usual general down back for the Bulldogs, while Pat McKenna kicked six to take his season total to 67 goals.
PHOTO GALLERY: Gisborne vs South Bendigo
Thomas Wood kicked four goals in his first senior game since June 1.
Young said they were still waiting to find out the severity of the injuries.
Casey Summerfield and James Ferry both suffered groin injuries, while Matthew Cassidy suffered concussion.
“We’ve had four to six changes every week for the last month,” Young said. “Hopefully we can get a more stable team and finish off the season.”
He said it was nice to bounce back after losing to ladder-leaders Strathfieldsaye.
He said they learned some lessons after being within distance of the Storm for most of the game.
The Bulldogs remain in second spot but the race for finals positions is truly alive.
Strathfieldsaye sits two games clear on top, with Gisborne, Eaglehawk and Golden Square equal on points.
Sandhurst, which sits fifth, will also play finals. Young said it would be an interesting run home, with the teams looking to secure a double chance.
“Strathfieldsaye look like they will finish top,” he said. “The next month is really important playing the three teams [below us].
“The whole season has built to this point. I think it’s ideal to finish the home and away season with highly competitive games.
“We need to play our best football. Where we finish is in our own hands.”
Meanwhile, Kyneton had a tough game against Strathfieldsaye. The Tigers were no match for the Storm, losing 29.18 (192)-3.3 (21).
