LOSING inspirational vice captain and spearhead Charlie Dixon to a shoulder injury early in the match took its toll with the Gold Coast Football Club going down to the Bendigo Bombers.

The GCFC battled hard against the experienced Bombers, who were fielding a team loaded with Essendon AFL listed players.

But the Bombers got better as the game went on to kick away and win 15.17 (107) to 12.9 (81).

The GCFC were sensational in the first half and led by a point at half-time.

However, the Coast lost Dixon when the big forward dislocated his shoulder after suffering a heavy fall.

The Coast found the going tough without the big man with the experience of Bendigo winning out on the day.

Wingman Trent McKenzie, who kicked two goals, was sensational to be the GCFC’s best on the day.

Livewire Brandon Matera was equally damaging with two goals in an eye-catching performance.

Joey Daye was busy as was youngsters David Swallow and defender Jack Hutchins.

Tasmanian Maverick Weller was the other multiple goal kicker with two goals.

The GCFC are back home next Saturday at Southport’s Fankhauser Reserve against the Geelong.