Bundoora ruckman Matthew Dennis proves a rucking menace for opposition Northern Football League clubs

STAR Bundoora ruckman Matthew Dennis has overcome an injury which almost ended his 2015 campaign after one week to lead the Bulls’ premiership push.

NFL Football: Northcote Park V Bundoora

IT WOULD surprise many to learn 2015 is Matt Dennis’ first year in Bundoora’s leadership group.

The dual premiership ruckman has been one of the Bulls’ most reliable contributors over the past five years, but has let his football speak for itself.

Dennis was recognised with the Northern Football League’s highest individual honour — the Frank Rosbrook Trophy — in 2012.

The 29-year-old has been a constant thorn in the side of opposition clubs over 86 games in the blue and white, building a reputation as the league’s most complete ruckman.

Dennis’ fitness and marking ability are hallmarks of his game, giving the Mill Park resident the ability to influence matches around the ground.

“If you’re a ruckman and you’re not winning the tap outs all the time you can have a down day,” Dennis said.

“But at least if you get beaten in the middle you can still do a bit around the ground and contribute to the team.”

Dennis’ campaign was almost brought to an abrupt end in Round 1 when he was injured in a heavy tackle against Heidelberg.

Initially diagnosed with concussion, it was only when he was taken to hospital that Dennis discovered the true extent of his injuries, which included a bruised kidney.

“I got a bit of concussion and also just slammed to the deck,” he said.

“I got up and didn’t realise until afterwards when I was at the hospital that I had so much internal damage.

“They actually said to me, ‘you’ll be lucky to be ready for finals’.”

Dennis’ recovery exceeded initial expectations, allowing him to return for the club’s Round 6 clash against Greensborough. He has barely missed a beat since, named in the Bulls’ best seven times in 12 matches this year.

“I’m getting to that age where I’m starting to feel like I can share a bit of experience,” he said. “I feel like I’ve got a little bit to give to the younger guys now.”

Dennis, a former Coburg VFL and Maribyrnong Park player, said he was confident Bundoora’s youthful side could make an impression in finals.

“I think we’re good enough to get into the finals and definitely we can beat anyone in there,” he said.

“It will be a tough run if we finish fourth or fifth, you have to beat everyone in the top four to win the grand final.”

Dennis’ long list of career honours include representing the NFL at the AFL Victoria Metropolitan Championships and being named in the Vic Metro squad.

One of the perennial pacesetters during pre-season at Yulong Reserve, Dennis hopes to have a few more years to add to his trophy cabinet.

“I can see myself playing good, solid footy for another 4-5 years,” he said.

Bundoora remains in the hunt for a top-three finish after a 14.17 (101) to 13.11 (89) victory over flag contender Macleod on Saturday at Yulong Reserve.

The Bulls slotted four goals in a 10-minute burst during the final quarter to confirm their spot in this year’s finals series.

Kane Slater finished with four goals in the triumph, while Andrew Carmusciano was named best afield.

Bundoora travels to Lower Plenty this weekend.