Gisborne needed a final quarter surge to overcome a gallant Castlemaine at the Camp Reserve.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Bulldogs trailed by nine points at the last change, but added 5.5 to 2.3 in the final term to seal a 17.13 (115) to 15.14 (104) victory.
It was Gisborne’s fifth win of the season under coach Brad Spear and the four points ensured the club will finish seventh this year – two places higher than 2016.
The Bulldogs’ fitness and belief played a part down the stretch as they overran the Pies on their home soil.
Trent Crosbie, Daniel Weaver, James Collins and key forward Jarrad Lynch had major influences on the game for the Dogs.
All of Castlemaine’s premier midfielders – Kal Huntly, Zac Hansford, Tommy Horne and Simon Seddon – won plenty of the ball, but it wasn’t enough for the Pies to get over the line.
After struggling to kick goals all season, there were some pleasing signs for the Pies.
Their total of 104 points was their equal highest score of the season.
Gisborne should make it win six against Maryborough next week, while the Pies are away to Eaglehawk.