A shock loss to Hadfield in round 5 proved a welcome reality check for Hillside in division 1 of the Essendon District Football League.
The loss, which saw the Sharks slip to 1-4, was the spark for the Sharks to turn their season around and they went on to win their next four games.
But that winning streak came to an end against unbeaten Craigieburn on Saturday.
The Sharks led at quarter time, before the Eagles kicked into gear and romped to a 23.18 (156)-10.8 (68) win.
Mahmoud Taleb and Brandon Coletta kicked two goals each for the Sharks, while Victor Micallef was named their best.
Speaking before Saturday’s game, Sharks coach Steve Burns said the loss to Hadfield was a line-in-the-sand moment for the club.
“We battled early and fought back after some bad losses,” he said.
“After Hadfield we had a hard look at the entire coaching and playing group.
“We sat down and worked out what was going on with ourselves and as a team.
“It wasn’t a great week after that game, but it was the best thing that could have happened to the club.”
Burns said one of the most pleasing things for him was the winning streak came while several senior players were injured, meaning younger players had to step up.
“We’ve had a really bad run with injuries, so it’s pleasing to be winning,” Burns said.
“We had 16 guys under 20 play and eight of those can play under-18s.
“No one has disappointed when they’ve had the chance.”
Jackson Volpato, Brandon Coletta, Jordan Sinclair and Andrew Papazoglou are among the young stars who have stood out this season.
But Burns said he was still wary how the young players would go in the colder months. He said he hoped that if they could stand up to the rigors of the weather they would challenge for a finals spot.
The Sharks are fifth on the ladder after Saturday’s loss.
“We were hoping for top six at the start of the season, but set no limits on how high we could finish,” Burns said.
“We wanted to make finals and we’re not far away from being a quality side.
“If we can handle the wet conditions we should be fine. Finals is now the aim.”
Taylors Lakes remains in touch with the top four after a much-needed victory against Hadfield.
It was a slow star for the Lions, who kicked away in the final quarter to win 14.10 (94)-10.7 (67).
Keilor returned to the winners’ list in premier division, while East Keilor defeated Keilor Park in division 2.
