Key matches in penultimate round
Saturday’s penultimate round of Ellinbank District Football League will carry high importance for teams jostling for position in the top five.
Of particular significance is the match between Catani and Warragul Industrials, which is likely to determine who will finish third and win the double chance.
There is little between the sides, who fought out a draw last time they met.
The Industrials currently hold third by virtue of a far superior percentage, but could slip to fourth and an elimination final with a loss.
Reigning Alf Walton medallist Paul Pattison showed he is back to his best form in last week’s win over Ellinbank that kept his side in the hunt for a top three finish.
It sets up an enticing battle in the midfield, with the Industrials having prolific ball winners of their own in Tye Holland and Tyson Bale.
Sixth-placed Ellinbank has a huge mountain to climb to play finals, starting with top of the table Nyora.
Victory over the Saints, whio have dropped the points just once this season, is a must to keep their season alive.
Should they get that done, they will have to do the same against secondplaced Longwarry in the final round.
For Nyora, this week’s match is a chance to shore up the minor premiership that brings a week off to advance straight to the second semi final.
Poowong enter its match against Buln Buln knowing full well victory will all but secure an elimination final berth.
AMagpies victory and Ellinbank loss will man the top five is set going into the final round.
Longwarry will continue to prepare for finals when it takes on Lang Lang, while Nilma-Darnum and Neerim-Neerim South will be playing for pride and some confidence as they look ahead to the 2019 season.