Just a goal separated the teams as the final quarter began at Essendon’s Windy Hill.

Led by the play of captain Ben Duscher, key forward Josh Jenkins, strong defence by Tyson Slattery and the skilful Tory Dickson, the Bombers kicked away to win 17.12 (114) to 11.18 (84).

After three consecutive defeats, the heat was on the Bombers to bounce back.

It was a much-improved Geelong line-up, led by former Bendigo Pioneer Troy Selwood, which kept the red and black under pressure.

Bombers’ coach Shannon Grant was rapt with the team’s four-quarter effort.

“We had a lot of contributors today,” Grant said.

“Ben Duscher was outstanding in a lot of contests. His willingness to keep the ball going our way was superb,” Grant said of the co-captain and ruck-rover’s play.

In attack, Jenkins took several strong marks on the way to a game-high five goals.

Playing across half-forward and through midfield, Dickson racked up 28 possessions and booted four goals for Bendigo.

“Tory has the great ability to go and win the footy and use it well.”

Grant said yesterday’s team was one of the youngest to represent the Bendigo Bombers this season.

“Sam Dunell (son of former Essendon player Frank Dunell) played his first game for the club, and Sam Kerridge from the Bendigo Pioneers also did well,” he said.

Tyson Slattery took on and Geelong dual premiership full-forward Cameron Mooney.

“Tyson competed really well and won his fair share of one-on-one contests,” Grant said.

After this weekend’s bye, Bendigo takes on Werribee at Chirnside Park. The Bombers next play at the QEO on August 20.