Various off-field scheduling problems during the first two weeks of the season (a buck's night and a wedding) have wreaked havoc with the Bulldogs’ lineups.

Nonetheless, things have started well for the Bulldogs.

Despite a heavy loss to Eskdale last week, co-coach Dan Dixon is optimistic about the team's potential.

They almost snagged a massive upset in their first game for the season, coming within 13 runs of a boilover against reigning premiers Kiewa.

“We had about 18 blokes missing across both sides last weekend,” Dixon said.

“The result wasn't what the boys were looking for, particularly after round one, but there were still positives to take from it.

“Andrew Dishot captained the side for the first time, Harry Kitching was able to spend a long time at the crease.

“Blake Noske batted extremely well to finish unbeaten with a half-century, he took his time and didn’t do anything silly.

“These guys are still learning to play cricket at a senior level.”

While their under-strength bowling attack was last week exploited by the likes of Shaun Baude (53) and Rhys Thompson (55), they delivered a much more balanced performance the week before against the Hawks.

Lachlan Ranton, Lachlan Lewin, Liam Andrews, Charlie Jackson and Beau Kennedy all snared two wickets apiece to hold Kiewa to an achievable target of 153.

The Bulldogs had four wickets in hand with just 20 runs left to win, but the tail-order fell cheaply to leave a big win on the table.

“The boys were pretty disappointed they couldn’t finish that game off,” Dixon said.

“Guys like Charlie Jackson and Liam Andrews, a lot of these other guys who can play under-16s still, performed really well.

“To come up against the reigning premiers and runners-up in consecutive weeks is tough for any side, but overall, I think we’ve done well.

“The challenge now is to play consistent cricket.

“Playing these guys in the District competition is great exposure for kids we think could go on and play at a higher level down the track.” 

The Bulldogs have a chance to notch their first victory of the season when they take on Howlong at Les Cheesley Ova on Saturday. 

In other matches this weekend, Kiewa will look to maintain their unbeaten record when they face Barnawartha-Chiltern.

Bethanga will look to improve against Eskdale, while Dederang and Baranduda should provide an entertaining contest.

Mt Beauty host Yackandandah in the final game.