Hillside returned to the winners list in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition on Saturday.
After dropping their last two matches, the Sharks needed a win against Craigieburn to ensure its spot in the top five.
The first quarter was very uneventful with just one goal apiece. The Sharks got going in the second quarter with a massive 14 scoring shots which resulted in nine goals, to lead by 50 points at half time.
The Sharks didn’t allow the Eagles to get back into the game in the third quarter when they had the win, with the margin reduced by just three points heading into the final quarter.
With the wind, the Sharks were able to finish the game off strongly to seal the 15.11 (101)-4.8 (32) win.
Bailey Ryan, who has been in and out of the side with Victorian Football League commitments, kicked seven goals for the Sharks.
Mitchell Hearne and Tristan Rudic were named the Sharks best.
The win keeps the Sharks in fifth spot, a game clear of Roxburgh Park which also has a poorer percentage, in the race for finals spot.
The Sharks this week face fourth placed Rupertswood in another massive match in the context of the season. Rupo sits a game clear of Hillside.
Meanwhile in division 2, Burnside Heights hopes of finals got a bit harder with a loss to Taylors Lakes.
The Lions took the lead early and were able to maintain a three goal margin throughout the first half.
The lead extended out to 30 points at the final break. The Bears came home the stronger of the two teams with four goals to one, but weren’t able to close the gap enough, losing 10.9 (69)-8.4 (52).
Theodore Sapountzis kicked three goals for the Bears, with Matthew Larkin and Tyson Iglesias.
Among those to play for the Bears on Saturday, was 16-year-old Cade Ansett who made his senior debut.
The Bears sit in sixth spot now, two games outside the top four. The Bears this Saturday face bottom side East Sunbury.
In the women’s competition, Hillside had the weekend off due to the split round.
The Sharks this Saturday face Westmeadows in premier division.
In division 1, Burnside Heights continued its good form with a big win against the Sunbury Lions.
The Bears got the win, 10.10 (70)-0.0 (0) to remain in second spot.
