Dragons dig deep to defeat Bendigo Pioneers
The Sandringham Dragons dug deep on Saturday after a late scare from the Bendigo Pioneers to run home winners by 29 points at Trevor Barker Beach Oval.
The Pioneers clawed their way back to within 11 points halfway through the final quarter before the Dragons piled on the last three goals of the game to claim their ninth win of the season and move into third position on the ladder.
Sandringham dominated the game for much of the day, looking comfortable against an undermanned Bendigo outfit, setting up the win with a six-goal-to-two second quarter.
Despite the strong performance by the Dragons the Pioneers never gave up, working hard at the centre bounces to shut down the Sandringham’s most prolific midfielders. Despite giving away height in the ruck battle, the Pioneers were able to gain control of the contest to start the final quarter and score three quick goals to cut Sandringham’s lead to just two goals. The Pioneers were efficient entering their forward 50 scoring 11 goals from 35 entries putting pressure on the Dragons defense.
Sandringham was boosted by the return of All Australian midfielder Charlie Constable who was damaging on his return from Vic Metro duties. Constable slotted back into the Dragons lineup with ease gathering 29 disposals, 11 clearances and pushing forward to kick three important goals.
Dual-sports gun Nathan Murphy was awarded Sportsmart best on ground in his third game for the club. Murphy, who looked at home in the forward 50, kicked three goals to go with his 17 disposals, seven marks and six inside 50s.
The Dragons have a bye this weekend and will face the Western Jets at Frankston Oval on July 29.
|
|
Q1 |
Q2 |
Q3 |
Final |
|
Sandringham Dragons |
3.6-24 |
9.10-64 |
11.10-76 |
15.10-100 |
|
Bendigo Pioneers |
2.1-13 |
5.1-31 |
8.3-51 |
11.5-71 |
SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS
Goal Kickers: N. Murphy 3, C. Constable 3, H. Mclean 2, I. Morrisby 2, W. Walker, J. Bakes, J. Amartey, A. Brayshaw, A. Trusler
Best Players: N. Murphy, C. Constable, A. Brayshaw, W. Walker, H. Mclean, J. Amartey
BENDIGO PIONEERS
Goal Kickers: W. Donnan 3, L. Davis 3, A. Byrne 2, M. Harvey, R. Turner, C. Sheahan
Best Players: K. Betson, M. Harvey, K. Farrell, J. Warde, W. Donnan, A. Mertz