Bendigo travelled to North Port Oval for the round five clash, hoping to bounce back after its comprehensive loss against Footscray on Anzac Day.

After a goalless first quarter and a competitive second half the Gold lost to the Borough by 67 points.

The final score: Port Melbourne 17.20 (122) to Bendigo Gold 8.7 (55).

Bendigo coach Aussie Jones said his side was put on the back foot from the opening quarter.

“We started poorly, but I have to give credit to the guys, they were really good in the second half,” he said.

Jones said in their first three games this season the Gold have begun their games strongly, coming out of the blocks firing from the first siren.

However, in the past two games the Gold have only scored a total of eight points in their first quarters.

“We were outplayed in the first quarter,” Jones said.

“Speaking to the guys after the game we talked about having and needing that intensity in the first warm up and at the start of the game.

“It’s also about sticking to our key messages.”

Jones said the team managed to turn it around in the second half, despite being outscored. 

“We took some risks, which was pleasing,” he said.

“Last week against Footscray we went back into our shell and were well beaten, this week we took some risks and played better.”

Among the best for Bendigo was Tyrone Downie, who kicked three goals, while Billy Mcinnes was the only other multiple goalscorer for the Gold, booting two.

For Port Melbourne Adrian Bonaddio kicked four goals.

Mitchell Wooffindin, Julian Rowe, Will Johnson and James Magner all kicked two goals apiece.

Port Melbourne player Shannen Lange also impressed against his old team. He was named in his team's best.

The Borough now sit in second place on the ladder, behind the Box Hill Hawks.

Jones praised the efforts of youngsters Sam Heavyside, Liam Byrne and first gamer James Lukish.

“These players are stepping up in confidence each week,” he said.

“They are all new to the group this season and quality players.

“Last year we had some quality players too, but if we all get on the same page, I genuinely feel we will games of footy this season.”

Bendigo Gold now has week-off before it tackles Collingwood at Victoria Park on May 17. 

Jones said the team would train as usual this week before having some time off. 

"It is a long season, so for some of the guys having a week has come at a good time, while some of the other players will be playing for local teams across the region," he said.