After winning the 2022 grand final, then missing finals last season, Gisborne senior footballers are on a mission in the Bendigo League’s 2024 finals series.
The Bulldogs outclassed Strathfieldsaye by 55 points in the qualifying final at the Queen Elizabeth Oval on Saturday.
The performance was spearheaded by five goals apiece to the classy Pat McKenna and Dylan Johnstone.
The Bendigo-based premiership aspirants must have sat up and taken notice, although they are all well aware of Gisborne’s capabilities this season.
There’s a burning desire among the Rob Waters-coached lineup to make amends for a forgettable 2023.
Strathfieldsaye defeated Gisborne by 23 points in round 16, meaning Sandhurst finished on top of the ladder with Gisborne in second place. It was Gisborne’s turn for redemption.
Saturday’s strong effort delighted the Bulldog supporters who travelled north to Bendigo.
The Storm led early, but kicking to the scoring end, Gisborne kicked six goals to two points to almost take an iron grip on the outcome.
The third quarter was the only one where The Storm really worried the ‘Dogs, kicking six goals straight to cut the deficit to 19 points at the last change.
Gisborne had a handy buffer of 27 points by half-time, and in the last quarter the ‘Dogs ran riot to slam on seven goals.
Final scores were 18.17 (125) to 10.10 (70).
Prolific ball winner Brad Bernacki is a class act, and once again he knocked up getting possessions.
Bernacki showed he is set for a fine finals series.
Lively forwards Johnstone and McKenna kept The Storm defenders busy, Flynn Lakey produced his ever-consistent brand of football, and Liam Spear and key ruckman Braidon Blake also did enough to finish on the ‘best’ list.
In the elimination final on Sunday, Golden Square 12.10 (82) defeated Eaglehawk 6.15 (51).
Gisborne now play Sandhurst in the second semi-final at the QEO on Saturday.
The Gisborne Reserves, who finished on top of the ladder, also play Sandhurst.
UNDER 18s GO DOWN
Gisborne Under 18s finished third on the ladder, but found second-placed Golden Square far too strong in the qualifying final.
Final scores were 11.9 (75) to 4.4 (28).
Gisborne failed to score goals in the second and final quarters.
Best players for the Bulldogs were Lucas Hannon, Lachlan Evans, Jacob Floreani, August Steima and Wilhem Mackay.
Gisborne Under 18s now play Castlemaine in the first semi-final at 10.15am this Sunday.
