SEASON ON THE LINE

ST LEONARDS will be looking for the scalp of thirdplace Ocean Grove to continue its run of form in the past fortnight.

With back-to-back wins against Highton 2 and Portarlington, skipper Barry Culph knows the importance of the clash.

“We are 14 points behind Highton 2 in fourth — this is our most important game of the year. A win gives us a great chance of playing finals,” Culph said.

St Leonards last week welcomed back club legend and skipper Tony Long from injury. Coach Alf Vella has also been on the sidelines, putting increased pressure on the group in previous weeks.

“The loss of two experienced skippers in the past four weeks has tested our depth,” Culph said.

“We are rapt with the past two weeks, and it certainly instilled enthusiasm and lifted the club spirit within our team.”

Ocean Grove goes into the clash with the return of Shaun Myers and Chris Deppeler to the skip position.

A challenging week at the selection table due to unavailability has forced a shuffle for the third-placed team, but chairman of selectors and Division 1 skipper Rod Swan said his side was ready for the test.

“We are plodding along OK,” Swan said.

“There have been changes throughout the year to our side and all players have accepted them and learnt to play their role.

“St Leonards at home will be a great test again for us.”

Torquay has the challenge ahead to hold on to a top-two position, and captain Ash Prosser said finishing at such a height was crucial.

“Finishing top two has been our goal. If we can achieve this it will provide us with every opportunity to make another grand final,” Prosser said.

The double chance won’t be handed out on a platter to the Torquay side that will square off with both Highton sides and finish with Portarlington (away) in the lead-up to finals.

“Highton has proven itself as the team to beat, we are looking forward to the challenge,” Prosser said.

“Port away will be a test and as a side it will be a great few weeks testing ourselves ready for a finals series.”