In what was a tough day out at South Dubbo Oval on Saturday, the Demons women and men were both defeated by the Bathurst Bushrangers.

The Lady Bushrangers proved too good in the wet and cold conditions, running out 3.4.22 to 2.3.15 victors to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.

READ ALSO:

- Demons immediately look to Bushrangers rematch after defeat

- Senior group sets the tone as CYMS takes another step forward

- Wellington downs Macquarie in fiery, top of the table battle

The Bushies led at every break in what was a hard-fought game and while the hosts won the final quarter it wasn't enough.

"It was a tough physical game. It was tight the whole way through," Bushrangers captain Amelia Wright said.

"Dubbo definitely had a couple of standout girls but across our team I feel like the standard of play was high across the board.

"We didn't have Brains [Brian Matheson] and Tori, our usual coaches there, and we discussed at the start of the game that I wanted all the girls to step up and lead on the field as well. I think that lifted everyone and we all played hard footy.

"Our midfield is always a huge asset for us, they're the workhorses of the team. They had to put in a lot more work than they would have usually had to."

The Demons women are fourth on the ladder after the one win from four rounds to start the campaign.

Elsewhere in round four, the Bathurst Giants were big winners over the Cowra Blues. The Giants won 9.11.65 to 2.2.14.