Bundoora eventually emerged on top after a fierce battle against Eltham in the Northern Football League division 1 match on Saturday.
Seven points was the largest margin at any of the three breaks before the Bulls kicked three goals to one in the last quarter to win 17.11 (113) – 15.10 (100).
Bulls football manager Darryl Richards said it was one of the best games he’d ever seen in terms of the contest around the ball.
“The pressure and the tackling was on all day from both sides,” Richards said.
“From the forwards, to the midfielders and defenders there was no really dominant player on the field and everyone played their role.
“It was a toss of the coin who would win. It showed the competitiveness of the competition.”
While there was no standout, veteran Gary Moorcroft was best afield with seven goals.
“He was the difference in the end,” Richards said.
“All his goals were from chest marks or work on the ground and he didn’t take any hangers, which is usual.
“When Eltham’s full forward kicks five goals they normally win; we restricted him to four.”
Matthew Dennis and Kent Delbridge were also good for the Bulls.
The next aim for the Bulls is to put two wins in a row together, which they haven’t achieved yet this season.
“We said from the start of the season that with a lot of new players it would take six to eight weeks to get to know each other,” he said.
“This result shows how far we have come.”
The Bulls are seventh on the ladder, only a game behind third-placed Northcote Park.
In division 2, Thomastown remains undefeated after beating Diamond Creek 14.13 (97) – 13.9 (87).
The Bears had to come from 26 points down at half-time after a slow start.
Matthew Ferraro kicked seven goals for the Bears, while Anthony Fazzari was best on ground.
Lalor defeated Fitzroy Stars 17.14 (116) – 10.19 (79) to cement its spot in the top four, while Whittlesea beat Panton Hill 22.10 (142) – 11.6 (72).
Mernda’s miserable start to the season continued when it was smashed 18.23 (131) – 3.5 (23) by Hurstbridge.
In division 3, South Morang continued its winning ways with a 21.15( 141) – 7.4 (46) victory over Banyule.
Epping was disappointing against Reservoir, losing 23.9 (147) – 9.11 (65).
