Chelsea Heights V Cheltenham (Beazley Reserve)
If the Heighters can pull off a victory here over the Rosellas they can reclaim fifth spot providing other results go their way. Unfortunately I can’t see that happening – Cheltenham should win this one comfortably.
East Brighton V East Malvern (Hurlingham Park)
This is a massive test for East Malvern. An upset win here will consolidate their spot in the top five; however the second-placed Vampires are tracking along nicely at the minute and should be too strong at home.
Heatherton V Bentleigh (Ross Street Reserve)
Currently a game outside the five, this is a huge opportunity for Bentleigh to strengthen its finals credentials. Its poor percentage does it no favours, but the Demons will go some way to rectifying this with a commanding win over Heatherton here.
Dingley V St Pauls (Souter Oval)
The game of the round, this will be an epic battle between the two in-form teams in the competition. Both sides have impressive ball-winners in the midfield, and whichever side can get on top here will most likely get the chocolates. Dingoes spearhead Dean Francis was held goalless last week for just the second time this season (the first was ironically against the Dogs in round four), so expect him to fire up this week and help his side to a win.
Clayton V St Kilda City (Meade Reserve)
Although both sides are now all but out of finals contention there is still plenty of pride at stake. This is a massive opportunity for both clubs to register their fourth win in a season where victories have been hard to come by. These are two evenly matched sides and this is a tough game to pick a winner, but I’ll tip Clayton at home.
DIVISION 2 -ROUND 13 Preview
with Jason Barbin
Round 13 has some ripper games in store that will decide ladder positions in the final stretch.
Hampton vs Springvale Districts (Peterson Street Reserve)
This is a highly important game for two clubs that sit just outside the top 5 but do have a slight advantage. Last time these two clubs met, it resulted in a draw. Those 2 points from that game will play a part in the final ladder positions. An exciting contest, Springvale will rely on their experienced heads to get them over the line. A young Hampton side will be up to the challenge though.
Hampton by 8 points
Oakleigh District vs Caulfield (Princess Highway Reserve)
3rd and 4th meet in what could potentially be game of the round. Last time these two sides met, Oakleigh got over the line by only 10 points and with a final spot up for grabs, Caulfield will want their revenge. Last week Oakleigh’s experienced players stood up when it counted and they will be looked upon to do the same. Caulfield aren’t without a chance though.
Oakleigh Districts by 19 points
Highett vs Murrumbeena (Turner Road Reserve)
The 3rd all important game of the round, a loss for Murrumbeena and their season is all but over. Last time these two sides met, inaccurate kicking cost the Beena the game as Highett won by 6 points. Murrumbeena are a solid chance despite their ladder position and with their season on the line, they will come out firing. Highett can’t rely on always coming from behind to win so they will need a strong start.
Murrumbeena by 2 points
Moorabbin vs Mordialloc (Widdop Crescent Reserve)
Last time these sides met, it was a comfortable victory for the Bloods and this matchup should be no different. Despite winning their first game of the season two weeks ago, Moorabbin have struggled to put together a four quarter performance.
Mordialloc by 45 points
Skye vs Doveton (Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve)
Doveton nearly caused an upset last time they played the Bombers and they have improved greatly since that last meeting. Unfortunately for them, Skye have also improved and have developed a nice offensive side that has proved to be rather potent. With their season also on the line, Doveton will give everything they’ve got and may get close.
Skye by 14 points
DIVISION 3-ROUND 14 Preview
with Andrew Paloczi
In round 14 Dandenong hosts Black Rock and will need to play its best football to have any hope of upsetting the Jets. The Jets have fallen to fourth place on the ladder and will be determined to bounce back with a win.
Ashwood is again home at Essex Heights Reserve, and faces Hallam. The Magpies have improved greatly since their round 5 loss to the Hawks and should gain revenge.
Sandown will travel to Mayfield Park with the hope it can be the first visiting team this season to leave the Mountain Lions’ den with a win. Last time the teams met, Mount Waverley won a low-scoring battle by 11 points. It should be an entertaining match, but you would need to be bold to tip against the Mountain Lions.
Lyndale is sitting in third place on the ladder and looks a strong chance to make it four wins in a row as it pays a visit to Fritsch Holzer Park to play South Yarra. However, at their best the Lions are a dangerous team and are capable of causing an upset.
Barry Simon Reserve is the setting for a match between Endeavour Hills and Carrum Patterson Lakes. The Lions should dominate this contest and a win by the Falcons would be a major upset.
