Although the Pioneers racked up 45 entries to the forward 50m, they finished with a score of 2.10 on Dandenong's turf.

In contrast the Stingrays often stung the Pioneers with quick transition from midfield to attack at Shepley Oval.

Final score: Dandenong Stingrays 12.15 (87) d Bendigo Pioneers 2.10 (22).

The Pioneers did a lot of the early attacking, but were let down by wayward kicks at goal from on the run or set-shots.

"The first quarter was one of our best of the season," Pioneers coach David Newett said.

"We controlled a lot of the play, put pressure on Dandenong, but just didn't apply enough scoreboard pressure.

"The effort was fantastic, we just didn't capitalise on scoring opportunities.

"A lot of the shots at goal were gettable," Newett said.

IDandenong scored 8.9 to just five points in the second and third terms of the round 14 clash.

Newett said the Pioneers battled to take contested marks inside forward 50m.

The Pioneers goals were kicked by Clayton Oliver and Josh Ryan.

Best for Bendigo were Liam Barrett off a half-back flank, Jacob Chisari in midfield and up forward, Josh Ryan in defence, Billy Evans in the centre, and Tom Cole in midfield or at half-back.

The Pioneers were hampered in terms of rotations and midfield run when Bailey Edwards and Aidyn Johnson were both out of the game by half-time because of leg injuries. 

After this weekend's break, the Pioneers are back at Epsom-Huntly Reserve on July 27 to play Northern Territory from 11am.