Bombers crushed by North Bendigo

North Bendigo laid on six goals in the first quarter to Leitchville’s two, taking a commanding 42-13 lead into quarter-time.

Joel Donehue’s team conceded another six majors in the second term as the game got away from them by half-time, the Bombers trailing 3.1 (19) to 12.9 (81).

The onslaught continued in the third quarter, as the Bulldogs piled on another five goals to Leitchville’s one, leading by 91 points entering the fourth.

The Bombers had their best period in the final term, kicking 3.2, but they still allowed 6.6 at the other end to fall to a crushing 7.4 (46) to 23.21 (159) defeat.

Leitchville (7-8) is fifth on the ladder heading into the final round of the regular season, occupying the last post-season spot.

It is only ahead of sixth-placed Lockington-Bamawm United by two percentage points, as the two sides share the same record.

The Cats lost to Colbinabbin in action elsewhere, meaning Leitchville and Lockington will be in a shoot-out for the last finals spot in round 18.

Both have favourable home fixtures, the Bombers against White Hills while Lockington takes on Elmore, with the fate of fifth likely being decided on percentage.