After kicking the opening goal of the match, the Bushrangers were stopped in their tracks as Bendigo booted the next six to run-out 7.7 (49) to 3.5 (23) victors.

"We were expecting a fairly tough game and in the end that's what we got," Brown said.

"They were probably a bit faster than us and got away from the contest a little better.

"Bendigo were able to capitialise on that.

"I saw enough to be encouraged though, we finished the game fairly strongly."

Lavington's Grace Hay took some superb marks in defence before pushing forward while Finley's Lily Sharp presented well across half-forward.

Auroa Smith and Zara Hamilton provided run on wings and Kristy Whitehead was strong in the air.

Eleven players debuted for the Bushrangers.

"We controlled the game early and didn't take advantage," Brown said.

"I think we have a strong, competitive squad though and expect to be competitive in most games."

The Bushrangers take on Geelong at Bendigo next Sunday.

Bendigo coach Danny O'Bree was pleased with the way his players held their nerve after being under early pressure.

"Murray came out of the blocks really quickly and after the first five or so minutes we thought we might have been up against it,'' O'Bree said.

"For the girls to compose themselves the way they did was a credit to them.

"Over the game we still made plenty of mistakes, but that's fine because they were trying things and they kept believing in what they were trying to do.

"We gave the girls plenty of ownership and they trusted in what they were doing."