HEIDELBERG is one win away from claiming the Division 1 minor premiership following an impressive seven-point victory over Greensborough at Warringal Park in Round 17.
Leading at every change, Heidelberg was able to kick 22 points clear at three quarter time and then withstand a late charge from the Boro to win 9.12 (66) to 8.11 (59).
In wet conditions under foot, both sides found it tough early with their typical fast movement game styles cast aside in preference for a one on one battles around the ground.
The Tigers used the scoring end in the third quarter to kick three unanswered goals and put the pressure back onto the Boro to find another gear in the final quarter.
At times it appeared Greensborough would snatch the victory when they came within seven point’s midway through the last quarter.
In what should be a taste to come for the upcoming finals series, both teams threw everything they had at every contest, matching the intensity that comes with finals football.
The only score in the final quarter for Heidelberg resulted in a goal to Matt Pianto late in the fourth quarter, following an end to end passage of play that sealed the victory for Tigers in front of a robust home crowd.
Greensborough appeared lost on the bigger ground during stages of the game, finding itself moving the ball too wide rather than using the corridor that they have so often previously found success through.
The dual of the day belonged to Heidelberg forward Jordan Treloar and Greensborough defender Daniel McLinden.
Treloar was the main focal point for most Tiger attacks and McLinden was up to the task always within reach to spoil. Both players stood up when needed for their side with an even stalemate the rightful result.
Earlier in the game the Tigers missed numerous chances on goal, having nine scoring shots to one at quarter time, yet only leading by three goals.
It appeared to be heading downhill for the Boro quickly following a goal from Tiger forward Jordan Treloar and then a yellow card to key forward Tim Bongetti early in the second quarter.
But two quick goals in a minute from Boro forward Rhys Boyden, followed by two late goals in the quarter from Boro players Tristan Stead and Josh Grubb, all of a sudden set up the contest for a big second half between the top two sides.
The usual suspects in Treloar and Blair Harvey were among the best for the Tigers, with support coming from Masaki Miki, Ben Kerton and Ryan Stone.
For Greensborough it was ruckman Micheal Hooper who again pushed his case for NFL team of the year honours with another dominate performance. Stead, McLinden and Brent Ryan also chimed in with solid performances for the Boro.
The Boro will rue this game as a missed opportunity to guarantee the minor premiership but will leave knowing they have the ability to match it with the top sides as they have done all season.
Heidelberg now sits four points ahead of Greensborough but behind on percentage.
A win next week against Macleod will see them triumph as the minor premier but a loss will put that result in doubt with Greensborough heading back home to face last-placed Whittlesea in a game the Boro will start heavy favourites.
Final score: Heidelberg 9.12 (66) def Greensborough 8.11 (59)
