THEY drew the un-losable match last weekend, and now Frankston will aim to go one step further when it meets North Ballarat at Eureka Stadium on Saturday, as Samantha Landy reports.
After racing away to a 41-point lead against Williamstown after kicking the first goal of the last quarter last Sunday, the Dolphins surrendered six goals to zip, leaving the teams tied on 92 points when the final siren sounded.
It was a case of 'so close but so far' for perpetual cellar dwellers Frankston, which has mustered just one win so far this season.
On the bright side, the draw elevated the Dolphins off the bottom of the ladder, moving them above the Northern Blues, who fell to North Ballarat by 26 points last Sunday.
Khan Haretuku also continued his solid season, booting three goals and collecting 15 touches and four marks.
Shane Hockey starred for the Dolphins with 25 possessions and a goal. Lachlan Delahunty (28 possessions), co-skipper Michael Bosward (24 possessions) and Kyle Martin (30 possessions, one goal) were also firmly among Frankston's best.
The Dolphins' upcoming opponent, the Roosters, found themselves on the winners' list for the second week running - the first time the team has won back to back games all season - after downing the Northern Blues in Myles Sewell's 100th match in wet conditions.
In doing so North Ballarat kept its finals aspirations alive, moving into ninth position on the Bailey's VFL ladder.
The Roosters will hope to keep pushing for a spot in the eight this weekend - a win would leave them outside only on percentage, as the team above them, Box Hill, has a bye this weekend.
Liam Anthony was named best afield for North Ballarat against the Blues, dominating play with 35 touches, 11 handball receives, seven marks and six tackles.
Cruize Garlett was also a strong contributor with 30 possessions, one goal, nine handball receives, five marks and seven tackles, as was Cam Richardson with 20 touches, two goals and 10 marks.
Luke Delaney and Liam Hoy starred in defence and North Ballarat Rebels youngster Will Pomorin had a ripper match as 23rd man, slotting three majors to be the Roosters' most prolific goal scorer in his Peter Jackson VFL debut.
North Ballarat bettered Frankston during both their meetings last season, to the tune of 28 and 87 points.
But the Dolphins seem to be showing more heart this season - their effort against Williamstown was solid proof of that.
That being said, the Roosters look more likely to come out on top in this contest.
For one, the match will be played on their home turf.
But more importantly, the top eight looms closer and closer for the boys from Ballarat, making this match a must win if they're to have anything to do with footy come September.
Last Modified on 22/06/2012 12:11