By Tara Murray
A poor last quarter proved costly for Bundoora against Heidelberg in Northern Football League division 1.
The Bulls took a three point lead into the final quarter, but weren’t able to stick with the Tigers in the last stanza.
After six goals kicked in the first three quarters combined, the Tigers kicked eight goals in the last quarter to run away with an 11.12 (78)-3.11 (29) win.
Bulls playing coach Andrew Sturgess said it was a disappointing way to end the match.
He said their ground had held up reasonably well despite the heavy rain, which had left the ball a bit slippery.
“I thought for two and half quarters, we played pretty competitive football, fierce football.
“Unfortunately the way the last quarter went, the end result doesn’t look great.
“We have to fix our last quarters, it’s happened before.”
Sturgess said he didn’t think there was one particular area that was letting them down in last quarters.
He said he thought it was more mental than anything.
“With football it’s about being able to play well in one or two last quarters and it’s about that belief.”
PHOTO GALLERY: Bundoora vs Heidelberg
It was all single goal kickers for the Bulls.
Sturgess said it was hard to find any standouts for his side in the conditions.
He highlighted the efforts of one player though.
“Gary Moorcroft is a guy who is 40-plus,” he said.
“To compete and give the efforts he did, it’s a good example for the younger players.
“It’s not always going to be perfect conditions.”
The Bulls remain in fourth spot, in what is turning out to be a close season.
The Bulls are a game clear of fifth place, with only eight points between them and second bottom side Hurstbridge.
Sturgess said it was a credit to the competition. “This is why the competition is ranked number one in Victoria,” he said.
“There’s no easy games any more and you have to be on your game every single week.”
Sturgess said they were missing six or so players out of their best 22 on the weekend, but it was nothing different from most sides at this time of year.
This week the Bulls face seventh-placed Northcote Park, which sits a game behind them.
“They won their first four games but have been hit hard with injuries,” Sturgess said.
“We understand they are a hard side to beat.
“We’re looking to get back on the winners board at home and in the competition.”
In division 3, Mernda kept its season alive with a one point win against South Morang.
The Demons winning 6.2 (38)-5.7 (37), to now sit two points behind fourth-placed South Morang.
Ladder leaders Laurimar defeated Lalor, 13.15 (93)-2.4 (16).
Ethan Frawley was named the Power’s best.
