The Bushies were outmuscled by the Rebels as they suffered a 4.4 (28) to 11.6 (72) defeat at Bendigo's Epsom Huntly Reserve.
The experienced Rebels seemed to have an answer for everything in the round three contest and dictated the affair from start to finish.
But despite the scoreboard showing a 44-point win to the Rebels, Bushies assistant coach Mario de Santa-ana found plenty of positives out of the match.
“We were really happy with how they played. They attempted to play the game style that we have implemented,” de Santa-ana said.
“Unfortunately, we just came up against quality opposition. Rebels had a bit more experience and were a touch older than us.
“But it was a good learning experience and it was a massive improvement from the round game against Bendigo.
“It's about development in the NAB League, making sure you are a better player after the game than you are before it and I thought we ticked that box.”
Leading the way for Murray was a host of district talents.
Benalla product Keeley Skepper collected 13 disposals and five tackles in a strong four-quarter effort.
The silky on-baller was judged Murray's standout performer.
Seymour's Chloe Locke (11 disposals, four rebound 50s) and Shepparton United's Molly Kennedy (11, five) battled hard in defence, while Aurora Smith (17 touches, five inside 50s) backed up her excellent round one effort.
Finley products Olivia Cicolini (two goals) and Lily Sharp (one) hit the scoreboard and were lively in attack.
“Keeley took her game up another level. It was a great performance across the four quarters,” de Santa-ana said.
“Both Chloe and Molly were important down back, with Chloe giving us some run off the backline.
“And Olivia put in a strong effort after being out of action for the past five weeks.”
THE GAME
Greater Western Victoria Rebels 4.0, 7.1, 8.4, 11.6 (72)
Murray Bushrangers 1.1, 2.2, 3.2, 4.4 (28)
Murray best: Keeley Skepper, Chloe Locke, Aurora Smith, Molly Kennedy, Ally Morphett, Kate Adams
Murray goals: Olivia Cicolini 2, Lily Sharp, Ally Morphett 1
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