The undefeated Bulldogs went into the clash on a 14-match winning streak.

After winning two of the past three flags, the Bulldogs had built an aura of invincibility this season with 32 points their smallest winning margin.

But the Hoppers brought their more fancied rivals undefeated run to a screeching halt with a stunning 11.14 (80) to 10.11 (71) upset.

The Hoppers overcame a goalless second term to boot eight goals to five in the second-half to secure the impressive win.

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Hoppers' coach, Tyson Smith, said the upset victory confirmed the premiership was not a one horse race.

"We have been building all season and have threatened to claim a big scalp when we lost to Barnawartha a couple of weeks ago," Smith said.

"But we finally produced a solid four quarter performance on Saturday and proved what we are capable of.

"I couldn't be any more proud of the boys who stuck to the structures and got the job done.

"We have been working on a game plan that stacks up against these good sides.

"Being able to execute is another thing but to do it against Thurgoona gives us a huge confidence boost in the countdown to finals."

Adding further merit to the victory, the Hoppers went into the clash without their leading goalkicker in Kaine Parsons (knee).

They were also without Joe Ciccone who is also a noted goalkicker.

In a promising sign, James Breen, booted six goals to land his second biggest haul of the season.

Breen is starting to hit his straps at the business end after a delayed start to the season as he recovered from a broken leg.

Smith alongside promising youngster Hamish O'Brien were also pivotal in the upset win.

Smith said he felt there were more than a few chinks in the Bulldogs' armour.

"I feel even though Thurgoona were undefeated there is not a lot between the top-five sides," he said.

"This result will give the other sides a bit of hope as well.

"While Thurgoona have built an aura of invincibility, they are certainly not unbeatable.

"Once you get out to Sandy Creek in September, anything can happen.

"We just have to play our brand of football and are confident that it stacks up against the best sides."

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