THE Bendigo Pioneers recorded their best win of the NAB League season on Sunday, defeating the third-placed Northern Knights by 23 points.

The Pioneers' 12.7 (79) to 8.8 (56) victory at Preston City Oval was their sixth win of the season - the most the club has had since 2003.

"We spoke after the game that we thought this was our best win for the season," Pioneers coach Danny O'Bree said.

"We stuck at it really well all game and it was a sensational win. Our ball movement was a highlight today and it was really pleasing to be able to throw a few players around in some different positions and they were able to showcase their attributes."

Among those to thrive in the win was 16-year-old Harley Reid, who kicked three goals.

"Harley played as a high half-forward early and then we put him through the midfield and he was sensational," O'Bree said.

"We had a lot of really good contributors throughout the game.

"Mitch Hallinan down back was sensational; Ryan O'Keefe up forward was really good; Harvey Gallagher through the midfield played well; Jack Hickman was exceptional with his pressure.

"And Eli Pearce on debut kicked two goals and presented really well. He probably exceeded our expectations, so it was a great first game from him."

MATCH DETAILS:

Bendigo Pioneers 12.7 (79) def Northern Knights 8.8 (56).

Bendigo goals - H. Reid 3, H. Gallagher, R. O'Keefe, E. Pearce 2, A. Hare, R. Monti, J. Nihill 1.

Bendigo best - H. Reid, R. O'Keefe, B. Stevens, M. Hallinan, L. Thompson, H. Gallagher.

MEANWHILE, former Bendigo Pioneer Jack Ginnivan kicked his first AFL goal for Collingwood in Saturday's win over West Coast.

In his second game for the Magpies, Ginnivan nailed a 50m set shot late in the first quarter. Ginnivan finished with 10 disposals and five marks at the MCG.

The Magpies won by 45 points.

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