Kilmore led from start to finish to record a commanding 50-point win over Heidelberg West at Heidelberg Park in Round 11 action of Heidelberg Golf Club Division 3.
Their sixth win on the trot keeps the Blues in second place on the ladder after the 14.8 (92) to 6.6 (42) result.
The battle for the double chance in the finals now looks to have narrowed to three teams – South Morang, Kilmore and Laurimar.
The third loss in a row for the Hawks sees them drop out of the top-four for the first time all season, being replaced by Old Eltham Collegians.
The result was only a slight improvement on the Round 4 loss to the Blues at J.J. Clancy Reserve, which was to the tune of 70 points in Round 4.
Kilmore got off to a flyer and had four goals on the board before Heidelberg West found the major opening. From that juncture onwards, the Hawks were playing catch-up.
The third term was the best for Heidelberg West, where they booted two majors to one to reduce the deficit at the last change to 26 points.
Perhaps one more goal prior to the last break may have given the home team a boost they needed. Nonetheless, Heidelberg West coach Michael Missen urged his players at the three quarter time huddle to back each other and work together in an effort to pinch the win.
However, Kilmore put the game away early in the final term with the first three majors which blew the lead out to 44 points.
The Blues were cleaner with the ball on the day and found easier entries into dangerous spots. Their forwards were often able to mark on a lead or in a one-on-one contest.
This led to Bailey Taylor-Egan slotting three majors from marks, while Jaxson Kinnear and Scott Swindells kicked two goals apiece from set shots. Marcus Webb was outstanding up forward with four majors and several assists as well.
Conversely, the Hawks’ forward 50m entries were often to a pack. Kilmore’s defence – led by Stephen McIntyre – repelled many attacks.
Leigh Irons won a heap of the ball and was ably assisted in the midfield by Chris Jackson and Chris Barton. Meanwhile, Michael McCulloch worked tirelessly in the ruck and also dished out some handballs to midfield runners to set up forward thrusts.
“Happy to continue our winning ways and we look forward to continuing our momentum,” Kilmore coach Nathan Phillips said.
The Blues pressured Heidelberg West well, but the Hawk players also missed team mates further afield when not under duress.
Heidelberg West coach Michael Missen rued the slow start and patchy form on the day.
“You cannot get away with 60 minutes of footy against the good teams,” Missen said.
Missen was happy with the job of Ryan Offer on Coaches MVP leader Chris Ryall.
Masaki Miki was in the thick of things as usual and finished off his work with two goals, while Jordan Allen followed up his good recent form with another positive display – often giving second and third efforts.
Alex Purtell returned to the line-up and added creative run, while Brad Moore and triple best and fairest winner Jarryd Coulson contributed well.
The challenges don’t get any easier for Heidelberg West. The Hawks next travel to Mill Park Lakes Reserve to take on ladder-leader South Morang.
Kilmore returns to J.J. Clancy Reserve to play Mernda in what is a must-win game as it aims for the double chance.
Final score: Heidelberg West 6.6 (42) def by Kilmore 14.8 (92)
HEIDELBERG WEST
Goal Kickers: M. Miki 2, J. Marris, L. Patterson, M. Celestin, R. Offer
Best Players: J. Allen, M. Miki, J. Coulson, R. Gall, H. Mozdzierz, R. Offer
KILMORE
Goal Kickers: M. Webb 4, B. Taylor-Egan 3, S. Swindells 2, J. Kinnear 2, C. Barton, M. Marrett, C. Ryall
Best Players: M. McCulloch, C. Jackson, M. Webb, B. Taylor-Egan, S. McIntyre, L. Irons
