Once again, the Bulldogs had made the Grand Final, for the fifth consecutive year.
Two changes were made to the team that accounted for Cora Lynn - Max Walton returned, and Jordy Patullo worked to strengthen the side.
Garfield's conditions were wet and windy to kick off the game.
The Goon jumped out of the blocks and soon were up 24-0, the Island proceeded to settle through Captain Jack Taylor and soon after, added another.
Hayden Bruce, Jaymie Youle and Charlie Bruce were getting busy on the ball.
Quarter time sat with the scores 30-12 with a four-goal breeze.
The coaching panel of Coach Pedersen, Daniel Larsson and Scott Huther rallied the troops and explained what needed to change.
Their strategy sufficed, as the Island piled on five goals in the second quarter to even out the contest.
The backline of Harris, Griffin, Duyker, Holmes, McKenzie, Olarenshaw and Jesse Patullo were starting to get on top - half time and the Island were left with only one point in it.
Throughout the third, the wind advantage decreased, resulting in an arm wrestle - goal-for-goal both teams went.
Tom "Prime Train" Baulch had an impact, as did Orlando Kane-Gillard who kicked a freakish goal from the boundary.
In a surprise move, forward Daniel Pearce slotted three goals for the game and was looking like a match winner, along with Pedersen and Taylor marking strong and delivering to teammates.
The game was in the balance as the Bulldogs took a one-point lead into the final quarter.
However, the Goon then found another gear, using their size and speed to full advantage they took an early two goal lead.
The Island drove the ball forward numerous times, but their defence was resolute, running out four goal winners.
It was not meant to be for the Island, in what proved to be heartbreak after a solid season.
The team would like to thank the supporting staff, families and significant others for making the year so enjoyable.
A mention to Chris Ross, as he steps down from his role as President after eight terrific years of service.
The Dogs will lick their wounds and be back better than ever come next year.
