The Bombers stunned last year’s Warrnambool and District league preliminary finalists in the opening quarter at Reid Oval on Saturday, slotting through five goals to two.

They held onto a five-point lead at half-time, before the Dogs found their bite, piling on 9.10 to 3.3 after the main break – seven of Dennington’s goals coming in an inspired final term – to walk away 15.15 (105) to 10.7 (67) winners.

Bombers coach Danny Chatfield was pleased with the efforts of the Bombers, who looked composed and confident when in possession of the ball.

“We’re definitely happy with it, especially with the new guys we’ve got to the club. We’ve got something to work on now,” he said.

“I spoke to the group about coming out of the blocks early and hitting them on the scoreboard, and that’s something we’ve done. It’s just about maintaining it now for four quarters.”

Dennington coach Jacob Rhodes lauded his side’s ability to turn the game around and get things back on their terms in the second half.

“Herb (Barlow) going into the ruck after half-time, he gave it to our on-ballers and then they started using the footy more and really hitting our targets,” he said.

“We got challenged, but it was good that we were able to bounce back.

“I thought Luke Duncan off half-back was really good. He did a fantastic effort, taking a lot of marks and really setting up the play for us.”