Eagles out to break Tiger streak

by Davyd Reid
Lang Lang's challenging stretch continues in round nine of Ellinbank District football with the Tigers set to host Ellinbank.
Having passed last week's test against Neerim-Neerim South, the undefeated Tigers come up against another side comfortably sitting within the top four.
All eyes will be on whether Marc Holt will take his place, with the spearhead finishing last week's contest with a tight calf.
The Eagles enter the contest having overcome a challenge from Nilma-Darnum before kicking away late for a comfortable victory.
Both sides will back in their fitness in what should be an intriguing contest.
Rylan Smith provided plenty of run and dash from defence, while Bryce Joyce impacted forward in a couple of players to watch for the Tigers.
While for the Eagles, they will need to watch as coach Daniel Fry continues to try new things.
The Tigers, who are out to show they are contenders during this three game stretch, will be well prepared after coach Daniel Fry was able to watch Ellinbank three weeks ago.
TRAFALGAR host Longwarry in another key contest in the chase for a top five finals berth.
The Crows regained their place in the top five with a big win over Yarragon last week and will be out to maintain their one game advantage.
The seventh-placed Bloods sit alongside Nilma-Darnum just below one and will be aware of the importance of getting one back.
Trafalgar will hope last week's win over Nyora is the beginning of getting back on track, as they look set to have players return in the back half of the season.
Longwarry's task will be made more difficult as livewire forward Jason Wells set to miss through suspension.
LADDER leaders Buln Buln will host an improving Nilma-Darnum.
The undefeated Lyrebirds should win at home, but it shouldn't come easily against a Bombers side aiming to improve week on week.
Following a big loss to Neerim-Neerim South, the Bombers were better last week and took it up to Ellinbank for much of the contest.
Nilma-Darnum will be pleased if they can put up another competitive effort.
NEERIM-NEERIM SOUTH will look to bounce back when they host Poowong.
The Cats will be weary of a Magpies side who has been competitive, demonstrated by their percentage of 95, but has just missed on stringing the wins together.
Neerim-Neerim South have been one of the four sides sitting a cut above this season and should get the job done despite missing coach Brent Mounsey.
YARRAGON host Catani with both sides eyeing off an opportunity for another win.
The Panthers will look to pass the test and record their third victory to remain among the mid-table pack against a Blues side searching for their first win.
NYORA have the bye.