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THE Bendigo Pioneers conceded their lowest score for 16 years in a 29-point win over Tasmania in the NAB League on Sunday.
The Pioneers' trip to the Apple Isle yielded a 9.12 (66) to 5.7 (37) victory over the Devils at Kingston Twins Oval.
Tasmania's score of 37 was the lowest the Pioneers have conceded in a game since they held Sandringham to 2.4 (16) in their preliminary final season of 2003.
"The boys have been really solid defensively all season," Pioneers coach Rick Coburn said.
"We've rotated quite a few players through our defence this year and they've all been able to gel well and play with a good defensive method.
"The boys were solid all day today. It was as close to a four-quarter effort as we've had all year."
Sunday's win improved the Pioneers' record to 4-7 in what's already the most wins the club has had in a season since 2014.
Forward Jack Ginnivan kicked four goals for the Pioneers, whose best player was tall Aaron Gundry.
"Aaron was really good in the ruck for us. He was good around the ball and then after the initial ruck work got involved offensively and had a solid game," Coburn said.
Gundry had 23 hit-outs to go with 18 disposals.
Seamus Mitchell (two goals) was also one of the best for the Pioneers, who avenged their two-point loss to the Devils from earlier in the season.
"Seamus gave us plenty of run and drive; he's a really good burst player who was dangerous all day," Coburn said.
Captain James Schischka was the Pioneers' leading ball-winner with 22 disposals, while Bendigo led the inside count 55-42.
The Pioneers, who moved from 11th to 10th on the ladder, have a bye next weekend.
The Pioneers will continue their season against the Calder Cannons at the QEO on Sunday, July 21.
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MATCH DETAILS:
Bendigo Pioneers 9.12 (66) def Tasmania 5.7 (37).
Goals - J. Ginnivan 4, J. Rodi, S. Mitchell 2, J. Dick-O'Flaherty.
Best - A. Gundry, S. Mitchell, N. Walsh, J. Ginnivan, W. Wallace, R. Clarke.
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