The Goannas fought of a gallant Bulldogs by nine points, winning 8.12 (60) to 8.3 (51) at Maher Oval.

MCUE broke away from Turvey Park in the third quarter then held managed to keep the Bulldogs at bay to enjoy a fourth straight victory.

Trent Cohalan and Brent Arho both made triumphant returns after not playing since round one and were MCUE’s best, along with teenage defender Jack Carey.

MCUE coach Travis Cohalan said his team must improve for next week’s clash with Griffith.

“Based off our last two weeks, we will need to improve significantly to match it with them in terms of our defensive pressure and workrate,” Cohalan said.

Matt Bailey was Turvey Park’s best, while Clint Shields kicked four goals.

The Bulldogs have now lost four straight but Cohalan had nothing but praise for them.

“Credit where credit’s due, their pressure, endeavour and attack on the contest was very good,” he said.

“They didn’t give up for four quarters and in the end we just got the win, but they wouldn’t go away.”

Alex McCormack and Ethan Schiller both sustained ankle injuries in the win.