Although much attention was on another forward at another ground, Mason McGarrity sent a reminder to the competition he also is a player to watch as he finished with 10 goals in Neerim-Neerim South's rout of Bunyip.
The Bulldogs had demonstrated improved form in recent weeks but like all before them, found the might of the Cats too much.
Seven goals to one in the first term saw the Cats on their way, scoring consistently throughout to win 26-24 (180) to 3-4 (22).
Kody Wilson, Ashley Lockett, Ayden Ramm, Eddie McGillivray and Nathan Bayne also were prominent.
Bunyip were best served by Jeb McLeod, Ned Ashton, Ben Stewart, Zach Gallahar, Timothy Henschel and Cody Welch.
BULN BULN remain clear in third-spot on the ladder following a comfortable victory over Nilma-Darnum, 8-21 (69) to 2-2 (14).
Only missed opportunities prevented a greater margin as the Lyrebirds continue to build into the season nicely, making it nine wins in a row.
Trent Baker, Will Battley, Shaun Beecroft, Mitch Nobelius, Brandon Allen and Reece Campbell led the way for the home side.
The better players for the Bombers were Thomas Young, Nathan Campbell, Sage Tapner, Oxley Huson and Sebastian Crowle.
TRAFALGAR maintained its position in the top four with a comfortable victory over Ellinbank, 10-13 (73) to 2-4 (16).
The Bloods conceded just one goal to three-quarter-time, opening a handy 47-point buffer at the final change.
The Eagles closed out the game well with one goal to two, but the result had already gotten away from them.
Brad Hoffmann, Dylan Farrell, Connor Noonan, Isaac Caroleo, Hardy Kenny and Blake Slater helped Trafalgar to a strong victory.
The better players for Ellinbank were Liam Anderson, Ayden Clarke, Daniel Pratt, Jake Harper, Alex Olsen and Bryce Joyce.
YARRAGON kicked away for a big win over Nyora, 28-16 (184) to 3-4 (22).
The Panthers kicked 12 goals to one in the first half and carried on with it in a difficult day for Nyora, adding 16 goals to two after the long break.
Frustrations began to show for the Saints in the third term as Yarragon piled on 11 goals.
Braydon Preuss, Brett Coghill, Sam Clebney, Jack Symes, David Bates and Gaige White led the charge for the Panthers.
Nyora were best served by Lucas Lee, Jordan Anderson, Dylan Heylen, Lachie Fievez, Jye Shaw-Remy and Tane White.