After losing two of their previous three matches the Bulldogs needed to make a statement against the Hawks and they responded strongly.

“We needed to get back to things that worked well for us last year and I was really happy with what the guys produced today,’’ North Bendigo co-coach Rob Bennett said.

An eight-goal to two second term set up the win for the Buldogs, who consolidated second place on the ladder.

“The first quarter was goal-for-goal, but in the second quarter our midfield got on top and gave our forwards the best opportunities,’’ Bennett said.

Key forwards Brady Herdman and Sam Barnes bagged 10 goals between them in the 20.20 (140) to 9.10 (64).

Herdman won the Robertson Medal for best player on the ground.

“He wasn’t beaten in a contest all day and his work rate was enormous,’’ Bennett said of Herdman.

Back-up ruckman Ryan Gow played his best game for the season, while defender Sam Demeo and wingman Aarryn Craig also earned high praise from Bennett.

Ryan Semmel, Chris Gleeson (five goals) and Adrian McErvale were best on a disappointing day for the Hawks, who appear unlikely to finish in the top three.