While it’s only early days, the Bulldogs look likely to miss a Central Highlands Football League finals series for the first time since joining the competition in 2006.

It’s no surprise, given the way things were shaping up in the pre-season – with more key figures on the move from a team that finished eighth in 2014 – but it’s still tough to imagine the spa country giants in such a predicament. Just a few years ago, the senior team won its third premiership in a sixth-straight grand final appearance.

The slide has been on the cards for a while, with the club’s champions slowly but surely retiring from the game or leaving the club.

Perhaps Saturday’s thumping at the hands of Creswick – a team by no means a powerhouse –best sums up Daylesford’s current standing within the competition.

That result leaves the Dogs winless from the opening four rounds ahead of a clash against reigning premier Bungaree next weekend.

Even coach Joel Adams concedes the era is over at the kennel, but he remains positive of what might lie ahead.

“I think (it’s over),” he said.

“(Saturday’s defeat) is definitely a bitter pill to swallow. We have been so dominant and been lucky. We had such a good core for a long time. In saying that, it’s (still) enjoyable and I do see promise.

“I see a good future for the footy club.”

Adams said the club had no intention of spending up big and bringing in players to build up the side, choosing instead to look to its youth as a way forward.

The Victoria Park redevelopment has also played its part in how the Bulldogs approach the current period, with the club focusing resources into funding the new facility.

While not committing to the senior coaching role long-term, Adams says he will “definitely” be there in some capacity as the club looks to fight its way back to the top of the competition it has dominated for so long.