by Davyd Reid
After defeating Neerim-Neerim South on their home ground last week to put themselves back among the Ellinbank District football contenders, Trafalgar face another test in round 19.
The penultimate home and away round will pit third-placed Trafalgar against second-placed Ellinbank, the Bloods this time taking home ground advantage.
Ellinbank took away a big win last time they met, but last week's effort shows Trafalgar could be building at the right time of the season.
Both sides sit among a logjam vying to finish top three for the double chance, with Neerim-Neerim South nipping at their heels.
Ellinbank sit second, six points advanced on the fourth-placed Cats, and victory over the Bloods will secure their spot in the qualifier.
Expect a close contest between two sides aiming to hit finals in strong form.
LANG LANG will host Neerim-Neerim South in another contest with finals implications.
Boasting a superior percentage to Trafalgar and Ellinbank, the Cats will be aiming to bounce back for a return to the top three.
A victory over the Tigers and a Trafalgar loss to Ellinbank will have them in the box seat heading into the final round.
Having moved ahead of Poowong into the top five last week, the Tigers will be aware of the need to take at least one scalp in the final rounds if they are to advance.
Due to face Ellinbank away in the final round, the Tigers may believe this week to be their best chance, being on their home ground.
POOWONG will aim to bounce back when they travel to take on Yarragon.
Having fallen behind Lang Lang in the chase for fifth, the Magpies will be keen to close the season with two wins over lower ranked opponents.
Based on the draw and anticipated results, two wins should still have them in the box seat.
A win over the Panthers and a loss to Lang Lang would see positions change again.
Yarragon will also look to close out the season with a win, and could put another dent in the Magpies' season.
Expect a smarting Poowong to respond with a finals berth up for grabs.
BULN BULN will close its home and away season with a trip to Catani.
Coming off a big win over Nilma-Darnum, the Lyrebirds would be expected to come away with another strong victory.
The Lyrebirds enter the round having secured top spot and will then enjoy a fortnight rest to refresh.
Expect a strong Buln Buln contingent watching on at Nyora in a fortnight's time to get a look at their second-semi opponent.
NILMA-DARNUM will give themselves a chance to break their drought and come away with victory over Nyora.
The Saints haven't travelled as well compared to their matches at home, but the Bombers will be aware of the need to work hard to secure the result.
Nyora will enter the contest looking for a victory to help them advance on the ladder.
The Saints sit on four wins, equal with Catani, who they happen to face in the final round.
LONGWARRY have the bye.