Oliver was one of the 24 players who represented Bendigo in its 22-point inter-league win over hot favourite Ballarat at Bacchus Marsh.

The lead-up to the game had been marred by player withdrawals and a less than satisfactory preparation, but Bendigo defied the odds to topple Ballarat in a victory Oliver described as the BFNL’s “best inter-league win in 20 years’’.

“I’m sure after Saturday’s win that when it comes to inter-league footy next year there will be a lot more interest from players,’’ Oliver said yesterday.

“The thing is, people who want to get in the squad might not get a chance next year after what this young group did this year.

“That win will change the landscape of inter-league footy in Bendigo.

“I know from a league point of view there are things we need to review as far as inter-league is concerned, and we have already started a review process.

“At the same time we should celebrate what we achieved.

“Saturday’s win was unbelievable . . . it’s the best inter-league win we’ve had in 20 years.’’

Inter-league football is scheduled to return to its round-robin carnival format next year.

The BFNL was relegated to division three after last year’s carnival, while Ballarat will compete in division one next year.

Under the round robin format, leagues play three mini games over two days.

However, Oliver is in favour of the VCFL returning to the old system which would see two divisions of eight leagues playing normal length matches over three weekends of the season.

“Discussions I’ve had with some of our players indicate they don’t like the round robin format,’’ Oliver said.

“Playing full length games certainly gives you a better indication of the strength of leagues.

“I’d like it to return to the way it used to be, where you play a game and if you win you advance to the next round a few weeks later and if you lose you’re out.