Youthful Bulldogs too nimble for the Pies

PERENNIAL West Gippsland grand finalists Phillip Island have worked themselves back into form with a comfortable 80-point triumph over Dalyston. The Bulldogs’ impressive win was built over four quarters, with their clean ball movement and relentless pressure allowing their potent forward line every opportunity to score. 

Played in fine conditions, in front of a strong home crowd, Phillip Island infused by new talent were quick to kick into gear with coach Cam Pedersen posting the first major from a set shot.

Kicking towards the town end they look primed and goals to Charley O’Garey and Jack Taylor swept them to an early 22-point lead.

Kyle Hutchison finally hit the scoreboard for the Magpies and two further goals to Blake Carew reduced the margin to just eight points at quarter time.

Phillip Island showed fluency to commence the second term with goals to Duggan and Taylor stretching their lead. Dalyston countered with a third goal to Carew but the pendulum was swinging against the visitors and the Bulldogs looked to be doing it easily with a comfortable 28-point advantage at half-time.

It seemed to be a case of death by a thousand cuts in the second half. Dalyston, despite their competitive efforts, let themselves down with average field kicking. The Bulldogs created crucial turnovers and inflicted increasing pain for the Magpies on the scoreboard.

Nine goals to two after the long break sums up their success.

The Bulldog’s Nick Anderson put together a masterclass up forward, finishing with five goals and proving nearly unstoppable. His effort was matched by consistent contributions from Cameron Pedersen (3 goals), Jack Huther (3 goals), and captain Jack Taylor with 2.

A special shout-out to Charlie O’Garey, who impressed again in just his second Senior game – showing poise and polish beyond his years. While Oliver Duggan stepped up for his senior debut and slotted two goals – a brilliant start to what promises to be an exciting journey.

Hayden Bruce, Charlie Bruce, Jaymie Youle, Tyce Kleverkamp, and Jay Ladson were all influential across the ground, continuing to drive the Bulldogs’ fast-paced and disciplined brand of footy.

Dalyston’s leading lights were Hutchison, ruckman Kurt Thomas, young Harry Howell and Michael Marotta.

Phillip Island host Koo Wee Rup on the King’s Birthday weekend while Dalyston travels to Inverloch to face the Sea Eagles.