After wins already this weekend to Geelong, Northern Blues and Port Melbourne, four big games followed today.
With the finals fast approaching, it was North Ballarat Roosters, Essendon, Sandringham and Coburg who ermerged victorious.
Roosters prevail against the odds
North Ballarat Roosters have hung on for a season-defining three-point victory over Frankston.
With both sides desperate for a win to stay in touch with the top eight, it was the Roosters who held their nerve in the dying minutes to prevail 9.10 (64) to 8.13 (61).
Despite trailing by 13 points at the final change, the Dolphins – aided by a howling gale and a boisterous home crowd – remained in the box seat.
But the Roosters refused buckle, restricting the Dolphins to just two goals, and bagging one of their own on the way to a memorable victory.
North Melbourne listed midfielder Taylor Garner was the hero, kicking truly from a tight angle to seize a nine-point lead late in the term.
Dolphins spearhead Michael Lourey responded with his second goal at the other end, but the Roosters clung on until the final siren sparked jubilant celebrations.
Liam Anthony continued his strong form with 34 disposals, while Cameron Delaney (26) shone in defence, combining well with brother Luke to keep Lourey and co quiet.
Lachlan George bagged three goals for the winners, while Chris Giampaolo finished with two.
The Dolphins were well served by Shane Hockey (23 disposals) and ruckman Russell Gaberiel who amassed 18 touches and a whopping 52 hit-outs.
Coburg clinch thriller
Coburg has withstood a remarkable second half fight back from the Werribee Tigers to post a three-point victory.
The Tigers trailed by 38 points early in the third term and 22 at the last change, but looked the winner in the dying minutes.
When Ben Warren waltzed into an open goal, after a quick double from Kieran Harper, the Tigers incredibly had the lead.
But a free kick the way of Coburg saw the home side regain the lead and hold on until the final siren for a 9.12 (66) to 9.9 (63) victory.
Liam McBean finished with two goals for the winners, while Robin Nahas continued to press for a recall to the Richmond side with a best-on-ground performance.
Werribee talls Ben McKinley and Ben Warren joined Harper with two goals apiece, while Michael Firrito down back and Daniel Currie in the ruck were both key contributors.
Essendon shakes of Casey
Essendon has upset the Casey Scorpions in a see-sawing clash at Casey Fields.
The Bombers trailed by 13 points at three quarter time but rallied to post an 11-point triumph 9.15 (69) to 9.4 (58).
Experienced duo Alwyn Davey and David Hille each bagged two goals, while Matthew Firman produced a stunning shot from the boundary line in the dying minutes to seal the game and best on ground honours.
Jake Best and Luke Tapscott both kicked two for the Scorpions, who were led admirably by captain Evan Panozza in defence.
Young gun Jesse Hogan was well held with just one goal, but did bob up late in the game and loom as a possible match winner.
The win keeps the Bombers’ hopes of a finals berth alive, while Casey are now back in the pack of a glut of teams fighting for a spot in the top four.
Sandringham runs over Bendigo Gold
Sandringham Zebras have powered home to register a 75-point victory over Bendigo Gold.
After a goalless first quarter, the Zebras responded to lead by 12 points at the main break and 24 at three quarter time.
Then hosts then put the foot down, slamming on nine goals to one to run out 17.22 (124) to Bendigo 7.7 (49).
Darren Minchington topped the goalkicking sheet with three goals, while Seb Ross amassed 31 disposals in a dominant display.
He was well supported by Tom Ledger (29 and 2 goals) and Adam Schneider (23) who returned from injury in style.
Terry Milera was also lively before going down with what appeared a serious knee injury.
Bendigo, who remained in the contest until the final term, were well served by Jake Aarts and Alik Magan (two goals).
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Last Modified on 22/07/2013 09:52