In trying conditions, the Bushies suffered a tense 10-point loss to Calder Cannons at Wangaratta Showgrounds.
A late goal in the fourth term had the Bushrangers edge within two points of the Cannons, however, the metro side was able to rally late and claim a 7.7 (49) to 6.3 (39) win.
Coach Mark Brown was disappointed his NAB League under-19 boys could not capitalise on their chances late in the game.
“That's the second game in a row where we have been in a position to win the game, but we just weren't quite able to get over the line,” Brown said.
“We had some opportunities late, but we just didn't execute well enough. Then they went down the other end and scored.
“Hopefully we can get in the same position in the next couple of games and be better for the experience.”
The game was evenly matched on paper, but the Bushrangers were ferocious around the contest and laid an extra 22 tackles.
Brown said the brief hiatus from playing — due to the recent lockdown — impacted his young talents.
“I felt we were a bit rusty which is not unexpected after a few weeks without playing,” he said.
“The game was quite even statistically; our tackling numbers showed intent from the boys.
“I just thought we fell short with our opportunity to impact the scoreboard.”
But there were plenty of positives for the Bushrangers out of the game.
Shepparton Swans product Ethan Warburton played one of his best games of the year.
The athletic utility amassed 34 disposals, 14 marks and eight inside 50s in a starring role on the wing.
“Ethan was a real standout for us. He has performed well all season,” Brown said.
“That was his best game (of the year). He put himself in good positions, he used the ball well and he used his elite running to cover the ground.”
Other talents performing well were Shepparton United's Kade Chalcraft and Cobram's Harry Beasley.
Chalcraft, a hard-nosed inside midfielder, racked up 30 touches, while Beasley was rock solid in defence with 16 disposals and seven marks.
“Kade continues to turn up each week and get the job done,” Brown said.
“He does the right things and competes hard. He's been very consistent all season.
“Harry is similar to Kade, he also competes hard and does his job each week. He plays undersized, but it never fazes him and he is using the ball really well.”
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