The Bendigo Bombers have gone down to the Bullants by 45 points in their first match of the VFL season despite a strong showing from suspended Essendon star Michael Hurley.
The 192cm key forward kicked four of the team's nine goal. Atkinson booted two while Bock, Scanlon and Davey had singles.
Northern Bullants 2.3 6.6 11.7 16.13 (109)
Bendigo Bombers 2.3 4.4 8.8 9.10 (64)
Best: Hurley, Davey, Atkinson, Laycock, Shinners, T.Slattery.
