Despite a strong finish to the game on an individual level, home-town boy Cam Richardson was unable to help North Ballarat get over the line against Bendigo in the VFL on Sunday.

Struggling with injury in the early parts of the year, Richardson's form has been building steadily in recent weeks. Against the Bombers he gathered 25 possessions and pumped the ball inside 50 on 5 occasions and provided plenty of run.

Aided by an encouraging performance from Aaron Mullett, who had one of his better games of the year with 21 disposals, 4 inside 50s and 3 tackles, the Roosters went down by 26-points and now sit 9th on the ladder with 6 wins and 7 losses.

In a scrappy contest at Eureka Stadium, North Ballarat’s forwards struggled to get into the game. Aaron Edwards had 11 touches, 3 tackles and a goal while Aaron Black managed 10 possessions and 4 tackles.

In the middle, Cruize Garlett lacked his usual zip but battled admirably for 17 disposals (8 contested) and 4 clearances.

An excellent first half from young defender Cam Delaney had the home-side well and truly in the contest and his figures reflected a solid outing with 17 possessions, 7 marks and 4 spoils to his name.

Brad McKenzie had a better week with 15 touches and 5 tackles, Gavin Urquhart had 13 possessions while Max Warren played as an undersized key defender with 4 disposals.

North Ballarat 1.2 4.5 6.5 11.8 (74)
Bendigo 5.2 5.5 12.8 15.10 (100)

GOALS:
North Ballarat: Hughes 2 Driscoll 2 Couch 2 Darmody Greig George Edwards Austin
Bendigo: Little 6 Dell'Olio 3 Colyer 2 May Kavanagh Slattery Bellchambers

BEST:
North Ballarat: Sewell Searl Delaney Richardson Couch Mullett
Bendigo: Bellchambers Lee Little Browne Ladson Shinners