The Bushies went into the match with 22 players, after three young guns were called up to play VFL at the last minute.
With that in mind, the Bushies were behind the eight-ball way before the final siren had closed out the 15.14 (104) to 8.3 (51) loss at Echuca's Victoria Park.
But the NAB League under-19 outfit looked to have taken the less than ideal preparation in its stride.
Some control in the back half from top-age talent and co-captain Cobram's Harry Beasley had the Bushies take the fight to Bendigo.
A spirited and brave performance from Murray meant Bendigo only held a narrow six-point lead at the main break.
But as fatigue started to set in, Bendigo was able to extend the margin after half-time to run out a 53-point victor.
Murray coach Mark Brown detailed the frantic 12 hours before the Bushies’ game.
“We received a call from GWS at 11 pm on Saturday night needing some players for the VFL match on Sunday,” Brown said.
“They were desperate (for players) due to the lockdown in Sydney affecting their playing list.
“And we were more than happy to help out and give those three boys a great opportunity to play VFL football.
“They jumped at the chance and the feedback from GWS is that all three performed really well.”
Despite the blowout on the scoreboard, Brown was delighted with how his charges had tackled the adversity.
“It wasn't an ideal preparation, but in light of that, I couldn't be prouder of the group,” he said.
“The way they went about it in the first half was extremely pleasing. They just seemed to fall away in the second half and no doubt fatigue played a role in that.
“Full credit to Bendigo, they are a very good side, but I was really proud of our performance.”
Leading the way for Murray was defensive trio Warburton, Beasley and Euroa's Ben Bath.
Beasley backed up his sublime season, one that has seen the key-defender continue to evolve his game.
“Harry was a standout in defence,” Brown said.
“He plays much taller than what he is and competes strongly. One thing that has stood out with Harry is how hard he has worked to add clean decision making to his skillset.”
In the curtain-raiser match, Strathmerton youngster Josh Payne featured in Murray's under-16s victory over Bendigo.
The Bushies enjoyed a 6.12 (48) to 5.5 (35) triumph.
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