The Bulldogs (4.3) came out firing at Merrigum Recreation Reserve, putting on a clinical display in front of their home crowd.
Meanwhile, Violet Town was able to hold pace, kicking 4.1 in reply, with two points separating the sides at quarter-time.
Merrigum continued its strong kicking form, drilling a trio of majors to continue putting the pressure on the visitors.
However, Violet Town managed to burst through the hosts’ lead, drilling 4.2 to snatch a narrow, four-point lead at the major break.
Violet Town (4.2) continued to nail its opportunities up front, while the Bulldogs stagnated down the other end, managing just 1.2.
Holding a 22-point lead heading into the final frame, the Towners finished their day with a tidy 3.3 effort, which proved to be just enough despite a surge by Merrigum.
The Bulldogs’ strong goal kicking (5.3) down the stretch, got them within just 10 points of a first victory for 2025, but it was too little too late for the home side.
The final score was Merrigum 13.10 (88) to Violet Town 15.8 (98).
Darcy Collins’ huge game in front of goal lifted the home side, with the mercurial forward kicking seven of his team’s 13 goals in the contest.
The Bulldogs will have a good chance to kick-start their season when they face Longwood in round six.
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