Long-time Bulldog Baden Crathern said the club had turned 180 degrees after Saturday's upset of Manunda at home.
The 13-point win - 14.15 (99) to 13.8 (86) - was Centrals' third straight and fourth this season, putting them right in the hunt for finals. Last season they were on the end of 100-plus point hidings most weekends and had to forfeit a reserve grade fixture when player stocks dipped.
But Crathern, who stepped in as caretaker coach last season, said you would not recognise the place now.
"We're ecstatic. The confidence is up, we've got a positive mindset, there's good people around the club and everryone is happy. We've done a full 180," he said.
Centrals's run started with a nailbiting defeat of Souths at Fretwell Park, followed by another close victory the week after over the luckless Cairns City.
A host of their best players turned out for Cairns in Sydney last week, before turning it on again on Saturday against the Hawks. In another tough contest, the result was never sealed but Crathern said it was their best effort yet.
"It's probably the first time we've played four good quarters. Against the Lions and Souths we dropped off for a quarter or two, but we really had to steady and play well in the fourth (to win on Saturday)," he said.
Young wingman Gavin Wallace was inspirational, backing up for under-18s on Friday night to play a big role in seniors, and Josh Brinn kicked a bag.
Recruits Clint Guy, Khyle Goodman and Tyson Ednie were again strong, while ruckman Josh Westerberg again laid the foundation in the middle of the park.
"Clint's a dead-set champion and you can't fault and Josh has been a revelation at the club," Crathern said.
"For guys like Gene Clement and Ben Graham who have been here for a few years, it's very satisfying."
*The upsets continued yesterday afternoon when Cairns City Lions won their first game of the season, defeating a South Cairns Cutters side 16.10 (106) to 13.19 (97).
Last Modified on 31/07/2013 15:50