Boys Pioneers remain unbeaten, girls endure tough start

By Matthew Kappos

Apr 12, 2025

Moama’s Grace McMillan featured for the Bendigo Pioneers in the opening round of action in the Coates Talent League Girls. Photo: Megan Fisher.

The Bendigo Pioneers boys’ side has recorded a second straight win to start the Coates Talent League season.

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The under-18 side earned a hard-fought victory over Murray Bushrangers in round two on Saturday, at Wangaratta Showgrounds, the Pioneers’ superior pressure resulting in a 13.11 (89) to 13.5 (83) win.

The Bushrangers put it up to Bendigo through the contest, taking the lead by a point at the final change, despite the Pioneers leading 17 scoring shots (9.8) to 13 (10.3).

Bendigo kicked four in the final term to the Bushrangers’ three, while also improving further in the behind count to prevail by six.

Local Echuca juniors Darby Jones (two goals) and Cody Walker (one) each got on the scoresheet, while Tongala’s Jessie Johnstone featured among the best.

The Pioneers girls side wasn’t able to replicate the boys' success, suffering a heavy defeat 11.13 (79) to 2.2 (14) in their season opener.

The Bushrangers had things well in hand through most of the game, keeping the Pioneers off the scoreboard until the second half.

Moama juniors Beth Morris and Grace McMillan were in the Bendigo 22 for the game.

The girls side plays on Saturday at Epson Huntley Reserve, taking on GWV Rebels.

The boys will be in action on Sunday at Queen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigo, facing off against Gippsland Power.