Experienced Trafalgar player Jace Butler, getting a kick away despite pressure of Neerim South's Tyssen Morrow (left) and Kody Wilson will aim to lead the Bloods to victory over a red hot Ellinbank on Saturday.
by Davyd Reid
ANOTHER test looms as Trafalgar travel to take on a red hot Ellinbank in round eight of Ellinbank District football.
The Bloods have fallen just short in games against Buln Buln and Neerim South, seemingly just unable to go the distance against the form sides of the competition.
Aside from a second-round mulligan where Buln Buln handed them a 10-goal loss, the Eagles have been in strong form. Their stretch includes a narrow win over reigning premiers Neerim-Neerim South.
With the likelihood of a heavier ground that may suit Trafalgar, expect another close result in a match that pits second against third.
POOWONG host Yarragon with the winner to finish the round in the top five.
The Panthers will aim to bounce back following a loss to Nyora last week, while the Magpies will look to continue the form that saw them comfortably account for Lang Lang last week.
League best and fairest winner Jack Hazendonk had a big say in that result, and quelling his influence will be high on the agenda for the Panthers.
NYORA host Nilma-Darnum in another important mid-table clash.
The Saints will be hoping to carry over their recent form that saw them account for Yarragon, as they look to bridge the gap to the sides battling for fifth spot.
The Bombers enter the contest looking for their first win and can't be discounted based on form that has troubled opposition in patches.
BULN BULN and Neerim-Neerim South will look to further consolidate their places in the five, as they are drawn lower ranked teams.
The Lyrebirds host Catani.
Already two games clear on top of the table, albeit with Ellinbank having a game in hand, the Lyrebirds will look to continue their stranglehold on top spot.
The Blues will hope to put in a competitive effort but should find its opposition too strong.
Neerim-Neerim South host Lang Lang.
Victory for the Cats, who boast the healthiest percentage in the league, will elevate them back into the top three.
While the Tigers will look to reverse their recent fortunes, the Cats simply have too much to play for and should take the points in this one.
LONGWARRY have the bye.
