The match started much the same way as when these clubs met a fortnight ago, with the Dogs jumping out of the gates and establishing an early lead. They piled on 9 scoring shots for the quarter and took a 20-point lead into the first change and coach Errol Lather would have been happy with the early movements of his charges. Needing to lift, Tom Granleese would have urged his troops on during the first break and they responded like good teams do with a 5 goal quarter to get themselves back in the contest.
The Dogs still held a 5-point lead at the long change, but knew they were in for a full battle. From that point on, this match was a classic arm wrestle between the two sides. Neither team was able to gain the ascendency and the Dogs held onto a three-point lead at the last change with a thrilling last quarter guaranteed. The Nomads had the better of the scoring opportunities, but were unable to put the determined Dogs away.
In a see-sawing battle, at the final siren it was the Nomads who held the lead and picked up the important win. Coach Granleese pushed forward and kicked 3 for the victors, with John Frost also kicking 3. Andrew George managed 3 for the home side and was their best on field, with veterans Paul Brown and John Woolaston also strong.
The Dogs will now head to Muswellbrook to face the Cats next weekend in a huge battle for fourth spot and the Nomads will have one last game on the road next weekend when they head to Tamworth to face the Swans.
New England Nomads 13.12.90 def Gunnedah Bulldogs 13.11.89 at Wolseley Oval.
