THE Murray Bushrangers’ dominance over their country rivals, Bendigo, continued in the opening round of the TAC Cup season on Saturday.
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The Bushrangers kicked away from the Pioneers in the final quarter of their clash at Punt Road to win 13.13 (91) to 5.10 (40).
It was the 23rd time in a row the Bushrangers have beaten the Pioneers dating back to the 2004 season.
The Pioneers’ side featured eight first-gamers, as well as Rick Coburn on debut as coach.
Bendigo trailed by 12 points at three quarter-time, before the Bushrangers finished with flurry of seven goals to one in the final term.
“We were happy with the boys for the first three quarters,” Coburn said.
“We didn’t make the most of our chances in the first three quarters… from our stats we had more inside 50s and were winning stoppages and probably should have been ahead on the scoreboard.
“But early in the last quarter Murray was able to put a couple of goals on the board to get away from us.”
The better players for the Pioneers were led by Tom Campbell in defence and Jacob Atley on debut provided plenty of drive off half-back.
Paddy Dow through the midfield, Lewin Davis up forward and stand-in captain Angus Schumacher were others to play well for the Pioneers.
“There were some good signs there today, it was just disappointing to drop off in the last quarter,” Coburn said.
Final scores:
Murray 1.1, 3.3, 6.8, 13.13 (91) d Bendigo 1.3, 2.5, 4.8, 5.10 (40).
