Ascension is the only acceptable way for Bendigo following a horrific season.
2013 not only saw them lose all 18 games, but a third of the games were by 100-points plus and in its last match Geelong inflicted a 200-plus point defeat.
Certainly, the first thing coach Aussie Jones will be searching for is that the Gold is at least competitive – last year its average losing margin was 100-points.
What will help Bendigo in that regard is that all those who remained of the list will have a VFL season behind them and now will have experienced two VFL preseasons.
That will be a plus, so will the addition of Messrs McFarlane, Sketcher, Wallin and Redfern who have all played State league football. Bendigo needs to earn the respect of the league and that’s something that rests squarely with them.
FAST FACTS
Coach: Aussie Jones (2nd year)
Captain: Steve Stroobants
Affiliate: VFL stand alone
Last season record: 0-18
Last season finish: Last
Best & fairest: Alik Magin
Welcome: Tyrone Downing (Kangaroo Flat), Derin McFarlane (Peel Thunder), Jackson Sketcher (Perth), Jesse Wallin (Morningside), Sam Heavyside (Bendigo Pioneers), Joe Redfern (GWS)
Farewell: Nathan Beck (Kyabram), Dean Putt (St Albans), Troy Kelm (Albion), Jackson Bolton, Pat Flynn (Kyabram), Rhys Clarke (Kyabram)
Follow on twitter: @BendigoFC
Last Modified on 29/03/2014 21:41