Gisborne was jolted into action at three quarter-time, to record its second straight win in the Bendigo Football League.
The Bulldogs found themselves in the unusual position of entering a match as favourites and a win-less Maryborough side made sure for three quarters they had a fight on their hands.
The Bulldogs trailed by four points at three quarter-time, but found another level in the last quarter kicking five goals to none to win 15.12 (102)-11.8 (74).
Bulldogs’ coach Brad Spear said it wasn’t an outstanding game, but he was pleased with how the players stood up in the final quarter.
“Maryborough was in front at three quarter-time and it was a shock and jolted the boys into action,” he said.
“There was stern words and they responded.
“We started doing the right things and managed to get the score on the board.”
Spear said going into the match as favourites was something the side would have to learn to adjust to.
“It brought a different pressure with the expectation to win.
“Maryborough would have been looking at the opportunity for them to get their maiden win.
“Our players are going to have to learn to deal with that if they are going to improve.”
Jake Conolan kicked four goals for the Bulldogs, and Clinton Young, Jaidyn Owen and Thomas Wood kicked three goals each.
It was the Dogs’ leaders who led the way. Skipper Jarrad Lynch was named best on ground along with playing assistant coach Young. Trent Crosbie and Riley Paterson also had good games.
The win moves the Bulldogs to seventh on the ladder, two games outside the top five. Spear said despite that, finals were not on the radar.
“Against a couple of the sides that have been up the top we’ve been really competitive,” Spear said.
“It’s a good indication of improvement from the last couple of years.
“It’d be really good if we could have a win against a top side and give us some confidence.”
Meanwhile, it was another case of so close but so far for Kyneton against Golden Square. The Tigers lost by one point. In the past five weeks, the Tigers have lost three games by less than eight points and had a draw.
