KDL | Gallery | Wombats continue winning streak, Stanhope salutes in crucial contest

Stanhope's success in the "eight-point’ game leaves them in fourth spot on the ladder, while United drops down to eighth.

With six sides separated by one win and fighting for ranks on the ladder, Patten said it was vital that his side kept winning against their fellow challengers.

“It was vitally important,” Patten said.

“It's one of those seasons where you can't afford to drop too many games. Especially if you want to stick in the hunt of the leading pack.

“We were lucky we got off to a strong start with the wind.

“They are a very good side and it took a good performance from our boys to get the win.”

Nathan O'Reilly continued on his "consistent year" with a starring role, while experienced head Craig Emmett was "ever-reliable" with his skills.

The pair found great support from teammates Tom Hepburn and Chris Sanders.

“I thought our delivery and ball use played a big part of getting us over the line,” Patten said.

“And our tackling pressure, something we haven't put a lot of focus into, was great and it was at the forefront of the win.”

Trent Doyle flew the flag for United, while Jacob Crow, Ryan McKenna and Jack Threlfall were in the list of better players.

● Lancaster has held onto its league crown following a dominant performance over Undera.

A 100-point victory keeps the Wombats locked in top spot on the ladder.

Billy Ryan enjoyed a day out with five majors, while Tom Davies and Nick Ryan were the two standouts for the victors.

Undera had strong contributors from Tristan Castle, Andrew Ralph and Cody Tancred.

● Elsewhere, Nagambie has leap-frogged over Merrigum on the table following its 35-point triumph.

The Lakers, led by best-on performer and mid-season recruit Jamason Daniels, were too strong on their home deck in the 13.10 (88) to 7.11 (53) win.

Mark Wilson and Nathan Fothergill booted three goals each, while Callum Tardrew and Mark Nolan put in classy efforts.

Josh Smith (four majors) was a shining light for the Dogs, while Jake Ross was best afield.

● Meanwhile, a nine-goal haul from Josh Mellington spearhead Violet Town's 18.9 (117) to 8.12 (60) win over Shepparton East.

It was a crucial win for the Towners, lifting them into seventh spot on 20 points.

Ollie Ford and Tim Ross found plenty of the ball while experienced head Sean Horsburgh rounded out the list of better players.

Shannon Campbell starred for the Eagles in his return from injury, while Jayden Damianopoulos and Liam Trevaskis chipped in with valuable efforts.

● Rushworth clinched its third win of the year.

The Tigers, led by Kieran Malone (five goals), Daniel Harris (three) and Joel May (two), rolled Longwood by 117 points.

● Avenel and Murchison-Toolamba enjoyed big wins over Girgarre and Tallygaroopna respectively.

Girgarre was gallant in the opening half before the Swans ran away to seal a 14.18 (102) to 5.8 (38) victory.

Kyle Maynard booted three goals to earn best afield honours and Paul Scanlon proved why he is such a valuable addition to the Swans’ line-up with the first gamer enjoying a strong outing.

Tim Cipriani and Billy Barnes worked hard all day for the Roos.

And the Hoppers ran out 186-point winners over the Redlegs, with Brad Cunningham slotting seven snags on the day.

Ashton Cashion tried to match his teammate with six majors, while Alex Wells was ranked best afield.

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