MILDURA have pushed themselves into number one contendership for the top four following a 27-point win over finals rivals Wentworth at Brian Weightman Oval.
The Demons have now won three consecutive games and loom as the team currently outside the top four that is most likely to challenge for a finals position following their 9.8.62 to 4.11.35 victory.
In a low scoring and scrappy affair, Mildura's Jack Bower finished with four majors from a total of just 13 for the game, three coming in the all important final term.
After scoring a goal each in the opening quarter the home side held a three-goal advantage at the long break and although Wentworth challenged hard to start the second half, they were unable to make the most of their forward opportunities.
Former Roo Josh Dean was outstanding against his old side, while the temporary returns of Finn Ellis Castle and Brady Rowles proved handy.
Wentworth ruckman Nick Jensen tried his heart out all day, while Nick and Jack Cottrell kept their side in the contest.
South Mildura remain a win and a half ahead of the Demons, although they were almost overrun by Robinvale Euston at John James Oval.
The Bulldogs led by 27 at three quarter time, however the Eagles flew home in the final term, just falling short of a remarkable victory by three points, 10.11.71 to 9.14.68.
Kevin McDonald led all comers with three goals for the day, with Eagle Noah Foster restricting the impact of leading goal kicker Matthew Min.
Defender Jayden Cogan and ruck Tyler Curtis also played important roles in the victory, with Nash and Mason Fitzgerald each kicking two goals.
Eagle Michael Zappia was able to keep Jackson McEwen quieter, while big man Justin Neyland was also good.
Merbein returned to the winners list following their first defeat last week, but also had to deal with a late charging Ouyen United, winning by 12 points 14.12.96 to 13.6.84.
The Magpies looked home and hosed with a four goal lead at the final change, but a four goal to two final term made the situation interesting for a little while.
Former McLeod Medal winner Ash Rowe continued his rich vein of form with another commanding performance, on-baller Vinnie Tassone and defender Blaine Grills were also impressive, and the ever green Joe Cavallo kicked three majors.
Kangas debutant Sam O'Shannessy caught the eye with six goals in his first game, with Dallas Willsmore and Brad Vallance leading the charge.
Imperials continued their winning ways by claiming a 46-point win over Red Cliffs, 15.11.101 to 8.7.55.
Sharpshooter David Hankin finished with six majors to move up to 30 goals for the season, trailing only Nick Pezzaniti (35) and Matthew Min (34) in the Tommy Bland Medal race.
Alex Douglas and Doug Arnold were at their industrious best for the Green Machine, while for the Tigers, skipper Liam McGlashan kicked three goals, with Vas Tuifao and Will Hand also performing well.
Irymple had the bye.
