URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, the Sandhurst Dragons have crushed the Gisborne Bulldogs with a staggering score of 22.15 (147) to 4.4 (28) in a critical match for the 2025 Bendigo Football League. This pivotal defeat could jeopardize Gisborne’s premiership hopes just days before the finals.
From the very first whistle, Sandhurst dominated the game, leading by 51 points at quarter-time and an astonishing 86-2 by half-time. This performance sends a clear warning to the rest of the league, as Sandhurst establishes itself as a formidable contender.
Gisborne, who had previously defeated Sandhurst twice this season, struggled significantly, managing only one goal until late in the third quarter. Coach Rob Waters faces an uphill battle as his team prepares to face Eaglehawk in the qualifying final next Saturday, September 6. The Bulldogs must recover from this humiliating loss, especially with key injuries to A-graders Braidon Blake, Seb Bell-Bartels, Jarrad Lynch, and Shane Clough weighing heavily on the team.
Sandhurst’s standout players, including Fergus Greene and Cobi Maxted, combined for an impressive twelve goals, leaving the Gisborne defense unable to cope. The Dragons’ offense was relentless, transitioning with ease and dominating one of the league’s best midfields.
In a bright spot for Gisborne, Dayten Uerata returned from Essendon VFL duties and scored three goals, including one that pushed the Dragons past the 100-point mark late in the match. The Dragons now have a week off before facing the winner of the Bulldogs and Hawks in the second semi-final, solidifying their position as a top contender for the grand final.
Meanwhile, other matches in the BFNL saw Strathfieldsaye secure fifth place with a 31-point victory over Golden Square, while Eaglehawk defeated Castlemaine by 27 points. South Bendigo delivered a crushing performance against Kangaroo Flat, winning 29.17 (191) to 7.14 (56).
As the finals approach, all eyes will be on the Bulldogs to see if they can regroup and challenge the Dragons, setting the stage for an exhilarating conclusion to the season. Stay tuned for more updates as the playoffs unfold.
