This weekend’s Northern Football League clash between Lalor and Thomastown takes on extra significance for both sides.
The Bloods were the first side to secure a finals spot in division 2 and on the weekend made sure they would have a double chance.
But they had to fight hard and were leading Diamond Creek by only two points at three quarter-time before running away 14.13 (97) – 9.12 (66).
A victory against the Bears this week will give the Bloods the minor premiership, while a Bears win would guarantee Thomastown a finals position in its first season back in division 2.
The Bears know a loss and a win for Fitzroy Stars over Panton Hill will see them fall out of the top four for the first time this season.
The Bears saw first-hand on Saturday why the Stars have been touted as the team to watch.
Only four points separated the two teams at half-time, with the Stars kicking 11 goals to five in the second half to win 18.13 (121) – 9.12 (66).
Matthew Ferraro kicked four for the Bears.
Whittlesea is the only other side which can finish on top of the ladder. A win over Hurstbridge and a Lalor loss would see them take top spot.
The Eagles were made to fight hard against division 3-bound Mernda on Saturday before getting home 12.11 (83) – 9.6 (60).
The Demons were in the game until half-time and kept the Eagles goalless in the final quarter.
In division 1, Bundoora made sure its finals hopes were in its own hands with a surprise victory over Macleod.
The Bulls, who entered the round in fourth place, knew a loss could see them fall outside the top five and took it up to the ladder leaders.
Trailing by four points at three quarter-time, the Bulls kicked four goals to three in the final quarter to win 14.17 (101) – 13.11 (89) .
South Morang enters the division 3 finals full of confidence following a 21.16 (142) – 5.9 (39) win over Heidelberg West.
The Lions play Reservoir in the first week of the finals for a grand final spot.
Epping, who lost to Banyule, will play Watsonia in the other final. The winner of Epping and Watsonia will play the loser of South Morang and Reservoir.
Tara Murray
