Bendigo Advertiser | NORTH Bendigo ruckman Troy Kelm further enhanced his big-game reputation with a best on ground performance in the Bulldogs’ drought-breaking flag on Saturday.
The athletic big man always loomed as one of the HDFL grand final X-factors and he showed why, with a tireless performance in the ruck and around the ground in the Bulldogs’ win over Leitchville-Gunbower.
As well as his tap work, one of Kelm’s most telling possessions was an intercept mark across half-back that led to Damien Webb kicking the crucial first goal of the final term for the Bulldogs.
Saturday was Kelm’s second best on ground medal in a grand final. He was also the standout player in Kerang’s 2012 Central Murray league premiership win against Woorinen.
“This is what it’s all about... playing in a flag and it’s just great to be part of this, especially with a club that has been so long since it last won one,” said Kelm, 27, who joined the Bulldogs this year from Albion.