by Rob Popplestone
Hill End proved no match for Newborough and Thorpdale lost a brutal battle at Foster in round three of Mid Gippsland football on Saturday.
Hill End v Newborough
Games can sometimes be won or lost before the ball is bounced if the reputation of the opponent intimidates.
Hill End, hosting a premiership contender, could have be seen Saturday in one of two ways - a match always out of their reach or one from which many lessons could be learnt.
The result was probably never in doubt, with the Bulldogs very comfortable 146-point winners, 25.17-167 to Hill End 3.3-21.
"Great to play in perfect conditions against a young, undermanned Hill End team," Newborough coach Craig Skinner said. "A consistent game from us to celebrate Liam Charles' and Josh Pearce's 100 game milestone. We are improving every week."
As good as Newborough's victory was, the Rovers should be commended for turning up, rather than turning it up, on a weekly basis.
Hill End coach Ambu Uliando described it as a tough day.
"Newborough were too strong and quick all over the ground," Uliando said. "Still plenty of good signs though. We will keep improving each week."

Foster v Thorpdale
No matter where or when, Foste