Leading 17-7 and dominating proceedings, the Miners looked set for an invaluable victory on the road but conceded a string of penalties to set up good field position for the Dust Devils.

This gave the home team momentum to score two late tries and the chance to win had it been able to convert either of the tries.

The first half was an even contest as each team scored a converted try.

Bendigo scored first in the ninth minute when centre Jeremy Solomon put young winger Nathaniel Whittle over in the corner. Manderson converted.

Cobram struck back shortly afterwards with a converted try from a tap penalty taken 10 metres out in front of the goalposts.

The Bendigo defence was tardy getting off the line to meet the Cobram ball carrier.

With the wind advantage in the second half, the Miners controlled play and spent most of the first half hour on attack. This led to tries by winger Vaai Liufau in the 42nd minute and hooker Elson Tuitupou in the 66th minute.

Bendigo once again conceded far more penalties than its opponent. This lack of discipline is an area in which coach Alan Wilkinson must deliver a stern message to his troops.

The Tyson’s Reef Hotel player of the day award went to Nathaniel Whittle.

In addition to scoring a try, Whittle was safe under the high ball, made several strong tackles and was diligent and effective in the kick chase.

Others to play well were Jesse Tuitupou, the Solomon brothers, Brendan Westley and Konrad Fepuleai.

The Miners are at home to competition leader Puckapunyal Boars on Saturday.

Team: N. Poingdestre, E. Tuitupou, J. Tuitupou. G. West, L. Eriksen, B. Westley, L. Tuitupou, K. Fepuleai, N. Dehnert, Jon Solomon, N. Whittle, J. Learai, Jeremy Solomon, V. Liufau, J. Manderson, T. Henderson, I. Tuitupou, L. Faalelei.

Scorers: Whittle, Liufau, E. Tuitupou tries; Manderson goal.