A tight contest evolved between Inverleigh and Bell Post Hill for two and a half quarters on Saturday, before Bell Post Hill pulled away late in the third term to go on to win by 52 points.
Inverleigh put in a great effort, but like many before them, the Hawks struggled to combat the fitness and endurance of the Panthers.
A six-goal-to-two final term sealed the victory for Bell Post Hill, with Chris Moreland easily taking best on ground honours in arguably his best game for the Panthers.
Joel Page was handy up forward again, picking up six goals, while Brad Martin got the job done at the other end of the ground.
For Inverleigh, on-baller Dean Muir was best afield, while youngster Brent Gillett was great in his first senior game for the club.
Hawks ruckman James Huybens received a heavy knock in the second term and took no further part in the contest.
With games against Corio and Geelong West remaining, it seems certain now that Bell Post Hill will finish the year on top of the ladder.
Last Modified on 06/08/2012 10:18