Bulldogs edge out The Goon

PHILLIP Island had a top four clash with Nar Nar Goon on home turf in what was a closely contested match. 

Pressure was on from both sides as they looked to solidify their positions, with Nar Nar Goon hoping to topple the Islanders who have continued to dominate the league. 

However, it wouldn’t be easy, as each quarter was heavily contested with the Bulldogs leading by only a couple of points.

As the teams ran out, the Bulldogs must have tripped on a black cat whilst running under a ladder! 

Luke James was knocked out cold from friendly fire in first 10 minutes, and then captain Youle exited with a badly broken wrist early in the second. 

In amongst all this excitement, the Gooners came to play. Whilst the bench was working out its rotations, the Gooners kicked the first 3 goals of the game, making a mockery of the tricky conditions in the howling wind. Led by Mathew Homfray running riot in the forward line, and Trent Armour and Brent Hughes around the ball, the Bulldogs couldn’t get into the game early.

The third quarter would prove pivotal as The Goon trailed closely behind The Bulldogs, with the scores sitting at just 59 for the home team and 54 for the visitors. 

The last was a tight affair, with the Gooners unable to score – with Max Walton in particular in defence being outstanding. The near-exhausted Bulldogs held sway, scoring just enough to run out victors by 13. 

A fantastic win given the circumstances, with the supporters able to clearly see that all effort had been expended by the remaining 18 fit players. Island players Eli Richards and Jack Taylor managed to bag two each for their side, with goals spread out between the team.

It was a tough win for The Bulldogs against a strong adversary, as they now look to take on the struggling Magpies at Dalyston this weekend.