The Bendigo Fighting Miners have started their season with a strong 31-18 victory over Cerberus on Saturday afternoon.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A fast-paced start from the Miners saw flanker Matt Boyle pilfer the ball in the Dogs' 22 and after some strong offence from the forwards, prop Joe Maiai went over to score wide in the fifth minute.
Cerberus found time in attack before lock Rod Kirk was penalised for not rolling and sent to the bin for consecutive penalties in Bendigo's 22.
Number eight David McDonald made a line break in the 39th minute scoring in the corner, with Bendigo taking a 14-3 lead at half-time.
Cerberus started quickly scoring a try out wide from a well orchestrated back's move.
Bendigo then dominated the set piece with McDonald profiting off two pushover tries.
Centre Jose Situlia was held up over the line twice when playing penalty advantage from the scrum before Cerberus then charged down a failed clearance kick and regathered the ball for their second try.
Maiai then went over for his second try after a barnstorming run close to the ruck.
Promising signs from the back line but a lack of discipline and several knock-ons saw the Miners keep Cerberus in the game for longer than needed.
Miners' best were centre Situlia, lock Danny Zhong, prop Maiai and fullback David Gudge with the votes going to D. McDonald (3), M. Boyle (2), B. Valaio (3).
BENDIGO FOOTBALL NEWS:
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
Bookmark bendigoadvertiser.com.au
Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
Follow us on Twitter @BgoAddy
Follow us on Instagram @bendigoadvertiser
Join us on Facebook
Follow us on Google News