by Mat Churchill

It was a much anticipated VFL clash between Bendigo Bombers, and AFL's newest team from the Gold Coast, that was held at Cazaly's Stadium in Cairns on Saturday.

Thousands turned out to see Gold Coast's high profile recruit, Karmichael Hunt, and witness his development since switching codes from the NRL last year.

But it was Bendigo who was out of the blocks quickly piling on six goals to one in the opening term, extending their lead to seven goals by the main break.

The only success the Gold Coast were having until that point was at the merchandise stall, selling out of stock within an hour as supporters embraced the new club.

It was a different Gold Coast team that took to the field in the second half booting seven goals to two in the third term and setting up an enthralling last quarter. Karmichael Hunt received some ironic cheers as he collected a rare possession in his role deep in defence.

A frantic final quarter ensued with Gold Coast continuing to place pressure on a tiring Bombers team. Gold Coast's power forward and local hero, Charlie Dixon, dominated the contests kicking three pivotal goals for the day showing that he will be one to watch when they join the AFL next season.

As the siren sounded both teams were squared at 89 points a piece with the ball in the hands of the Gold Coast 40m out on a tight angle. The set shot sailed across the face of goal, but still squeezed in for a behind clinching a hard fought win, endearing the Gold Coast to the Cairns faithful, and ensuring a strong far north following for the team as they head into the 2011 AFL season.

Final scores: Gold Coast 13.12.90 defeated Bendigo Bombers 13.11.89.

Gold Coast
Goal Kickers: C. Dixon 3, A. Magin 2, D. Swallow 2, B. Matera 2, S. Iles, R. Liddy, T. Grayson, M. Fowler
Best Players: D. Swallow, M. Weller, C. Dixon, Z. Smith, S. Iles, T. McKenzie

Bendigo Bombers
Goal Kickers: B. Duscher 2, K. Hardingham 2, M. Williams 2, B. Houli 2, J. Carlisle, P. Scanlon, M. Still, M. Quinn, S. Crameri
Best Players: B. Houli, D. Myers, S. Crameri, M. James, J. Flaherty, M. Quinn