Gisborne is aiming high in 2019 after strong off-season recruiting
After a return to finals last season, Gisborne’s off-season recruiting spree has the Bulldogs eyeing higher honours when the Bendigo Football League 2019 season kicks off.
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Gisborne’s off-season recruiting spree has the Bulldogs eyeing higher honours.
The club played finals under first-year coach Clinton Young for the first time in three years last season and has added former GWS and Melbourne youngster Pat McKenna, James Ferry (Essendon VFL), Casey Summerfield (Macedon), Brad Bernacki (Coburg VFL/East Sunbury) and Scott and Tim Walsh (Riddell).
Gisborne last tasted Bendigo Football League success in 2006, its fourth premiership in five years.
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“Last year we had a good developing year and made finals, which was good for our young group,” Young said.
“It’s been great that all these people are Gisborne people, returning to the club.
“Last year we finished off the season really well and were very competitive against the top teams.
“With another pre-season under our belts and the recruits we’ve got, we’re hoping to be among the top teams.”
Gisborne opens its season against Castlemaine on April 13 before its first home game against Kyneton on April 19.
The Bulldogs warmed up for Round 1 with a pre-season practice match against Northern league grand finalists Macleod, with Young impressed by his team’s showing.
“I was really pleased with how we attacked the contest and I’m guessing they would have been a bit surprised,” he said.
“It gave me confidence the boys are ready to go and the selection drama will be more so for me this year, knowing several boys will be missing out.”
The Bulldogs lost just three games at home last year and are determined to make Gardiner Reserve a fortress again.
Young said the club would continue to pride itself on contested football but would need to adapt to bigger grounds around the competition.
“Gisborne is a small ground and it’s often wet conditions, so we like to pride ourselves on that (tough) style at home,” he said.
“But the majority of games in Bendigo there’s bigger grounds with wide open spaces and a bit more free flowing footy, so we need to adapt to both styles of play, but I’m confident we can do that.
“In years gone by, when Gisborne was a strong team, it was a real stomping ground and hopefully Bendigo teams find it hard to come down and win in Gisborne.”
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