Dogs slaughter the Sea Eagles at the Kennel

PHILLIP Island seniors stormed into the finals with a massive 143-point victory over Inverloch-Kongwak. From the first bounce, the Bulldogs were switched on, moving the ball with pace and precision while applying relentless pressure all over the ground. It was a complete team performance that showcased why the side will be a serious contender in September.

Up forward, Billy Taylor was unstoppable, finishing with eight goals in a commanding display. Cameron Pedersen also proved too strong with six majors, while Brendan Kimber (4), Yianni Caffieri (3), Nick Anderson (3), Jack Huther (2), and singles to Jordy Patullo, Connor Thompson and Jack Taylor rounded out the big scoring day.

The best players list was headlined by Taylor and Pedersen, with Jordy Patullo, Hayden Bruce, Yianni Caffieri and Zak Vernon also among the standout contributors. It was also a special milestone for Jordy Patullo, who played his 100th senior game for the club – a huge achievement and a proud moment for Jordy and his family.

For Inverloch-Kongwak, it was always going to be a tough day at the office. The Sea Eagles struggled to make an impact early, registering just three behinds in the opening term through Oscar Toussaint (2) and Xavier Hughes.

Their persistence was rewarded in the second quarter when Maxwell Scott slotted their first major, quickly followed by a goal to Toby Mahoney that lifted spirits. Inverloch-Kongwak continued to battle hard and added four more goals and six behinds across the remainder of the contest, showing patches of fight but ultimately unable to bridge the gap after Phillip 
Island’s blistering start.

While the heavy defeat confirmed the end of the Sea Eagles’ finals hopes, it also marks a chance for the club to reset and look ahead to 2026. With a number of experienced players finishing up at the end of the 2024 season, it’s been a year for rebuilding.

The Bulldogs now turn their focus to finals football, with an Elimination Final against Kilcunda Bass on Saturday, August 30 at Nar Nar Goon Recreation Reserve. With strong form and belief within the group, the boys are determined to make a big statement in September.