A gallant Bendigo has gone down to Werribee by 20 points in a tight contest with Jason Johnson and Courtney Johns putting in strong performances in their bid for senior selection.

Bendigo got within a single kick midway through the final term before Werribee kicked two steadying majors to run out winners, 17.13.115 to 14.11.95.

Johnson was busy all day and managed to keep Bendigo within striking distance, while Johns started in defence before switching forward and kicking two late goals to put Bendigo within five points.