NORTH Bendigo has capped off its impressive Heathcote and District season with a thrilling one goal win over Mount Pleasant.
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The lead changed several times throughout the game, however it was the Bulldogs who led at the final whistle, winning their 15th game of the season.
The 49 to 48 goal win on Saturday afternoon, meant North Bendigo finished on top of the ladder at the end of the season, while Mounts now sit in fourth, with finals beginning next weekend.
North Bendigo coach Tamara Gilchrist said it was a fantastic game that could have gone either way.
"We had a lead of about four or five goals and then to Mount Pleasant's credit they pegged back the lead and got in front by two," she said.
"It was a hard-fought victory.
"No-one really stood out, it was a team effort."
Gilchrist said heading into the match she was unsure of how the A-grade team would go with key players Sam Wyatt and Rebecca Green missing.
"We had a different line-up to what we are used to, we have some great depth within the club and that really paid off for us," she said.
Gilchrist said her team was now looking forward to having the week off and then lifting their game during the finals.
"We will train as normal this week and then go and watch the two finals games and keep up with what is happening with the other teams," she said.
North Bendigo will take on either Colbinabbin or White Hills in its first finals match.
Mount Pleasant will take on Lockington-Bamawm United in its first final.
Colbinabbin, the reigning premiers, had a big win over Elmore, 73 to 34.
The Grasshopers secured second spot on the ladder.
White Hills also defeated Lockington 39 to 22 and moved into third position on the HDNA ladder.
Demons coach Jody Chant said a flying start was the difference between the two sides.
"We had a 10 goal lead in the first quarter and then continued to increase it throughout the game," she said.
"It was a great game for us, the girls have got that confidence now and are really keen for the finals."
Leitchville-Gunbower also scored a win against Huntly in its final game, the final score was 49 to 21.
Heathcote had the bye.