The Bendigo Bombers lost their opening match of the season this afternoon, going down to the Northern Bullants by nine points. The Bombers were outclassed early but produced a much improved performance in the second half and were clinging to a two-point lead at the final change.
 
Late in the final quarter Bendigo still looked like hanging on but two goals in 30 seconds to the Bullants just before the final siren sealed their fate. The Bombers went down 12.8 (80) to 13.11 (89).
 
Cale Hooker was the best performed Essendon-listed player, doing an excellent job at centre half back. He marked strongly, used the ball well and already looks a much improved player with a full season now under his belt.
 
Bachar Houli sparked the Bombers in the third quarter, racking up countless possessions in the midfield and bringing his fellow midfielders into the game. Nathan Lovett-Murray and Jarrod Atkinson were other solid contributors as was rookie Bryce Carroll and first-year player Tyson Slattery.
 
The Bombers have John Williams on report after he made late contact with a Northern Bullants player in a marking contest. There were no significant injuries from the game although Jay Neagle was left dazed after a heavy headclash midway through the final quarter.
 

Goal kickers: John Williams (3), Simon Weekley (3), Rhys Magin (2), Jay Neagle, Paul Scanlon, Nathan Lovett-Murray and Tom Bellchambers (1).

 

Best players: James Flaherty, Cale Hooker, Paul Scanlon, Stewart Crameri, Tyson Slattery and Bryce Carroll.