By Tyler Lewis
Devon Meadows and Pearcedale appear set to make a long-awaited return to the MPNFL finals.
While there’s a log-jam, with just one win separating second and seventh, the Dales and Panthers are a cut above the challengers.
The Bastinac brothers – Ryan and Jordan – were scintillating for the Dales on Saturday, as the home side overcame a quarter-time deficit to run away 15.13 (103) to 7.10 (52) winners over Rye.
Ryan booted two and Jordan one to go with their stack of possessions.
The second-placed Dales will receive their litmus test this weekend, when host the seemingly untouchable Langwarrin unit.
Devon Meadows, meanwhile, cruised to a comfortable victory over the hapless Tyabb.
The Panthers kept the door ajar after a docile second term, conceding five goals to three.
But Ryan Hendy’s men returned from the main break with steam oozing out their ears, firing off six goals to one in the third term, and eventually nine goals to four in the second half.
Brodie McConnell kicked three and Nick Battle two in the Panthers 14.13 (97) to 9.2 (56) win.
That aforementioned Langwarrin side cruised to victory at home over Mornington.
Despite the picture-perfect conditions, the Roos and Dogs fought out a low-scoring 9.9 (63) to 6.7 (43) slog.
Roos ball-magnet Zach Andrewartha brought his own Sherrin, while Harry Bould provided some offensive drive for the Dogs in his first game since his shoulder injury a month ago.
In other results across Division 2: Chelsea edged out Somerville, 12.20 (92) to 9.11 (65); Crib Point remain in pursuit of its first win, losing to Karingal 7.17 (59) to 7.6 (48) and Hastings received another thumping, this week at the hands of Seaford 20.12 (132) to 14.10 (94).
