Thomastown held off a late comeback by Diamond Creek for its third win in a row in Northern Football League division 2.
The Bears looked on track for a big win for three and a half quarters, and after kicking the first goal of the last quarter, were nine goals up.
But Diamond Creek threw caution to the wind and kicked the last five goals of the game.
The Bears had done enough early, to win 16.14 (110)-13.7 (85).
Bears coach Ben Chapman said it was disappointing to concede the last five goals of the game.
“For three and a bit quarters, we were pretty good,” he said. “It’s the best footy we’ve played for a while.
“In fairness, they come hard in the last quarter and we couldn’t get the ball in our hands the last 10-15 minutes.
“It’s a good thing to learn and we need to try and close out games.”
Chapman said a couple of injuries earlier in the game didn’t help with rotations, leaving some players out of legs.
Chapman said Anthony Capeci was their best, kicking six goals and handing off a couple of others.
Dylan Chapman in the ruck, James Rizzolio (three goals) and Benjamin Nesci were the other standouts.
Chapman said every player contributed at some stage during the game which was a good sign.
The win, the Bears third for the season and third in a row, puts them in third, only percentage behind second-placed Whittlesea.
PHOTO GALLERY: Thomastown vs Diamond Creek
Chapman said they continued to improve each week.
“In the last three games, there’s been some good signs and we have improved from week to week.
“Hopefully it will continue.”
The Bears this week face Watsonia, before the division has the week off for interleague.
Chapman said they had to make sure they were switched on every game.
“The competition is so even, there’s no easy games in the competition. The results reflect that and it’s healthy. We need to keep the group switched on.
“Our driving force each week is to get better week in, week out.”
In other results, Whittlesea got its third win of the season, beating an inaccurate St Mary’s 13.7 (85)-6.21 (57).
In division 1, Bundoora won its third straight game, beating West Preston-Lakeside.
Veteran Gary Moorcroft kicked six goals for the Bulls as they won 18.7 (115)-14.14 (98).
In division 3, South Morang and Old Eltham Collegians played out a draw. The Turtles were left to rue poor kicking, having had five more scoring shots in the 9.8 (62)-8.14 (62) result.
Mernda proved too strong for Reservoir, winning 18.22 (130)-1.6 (12). Laurimar won a thriller against Panton Hill, while Lalor lost to Heidleberg West.
