Despite a final round loss, the Sunbury Kangaroos will play Essendon District Football League division 2 finals this season.
The Kangaroos entered the round in fourth spot ahead of a clash with minor premiers Oak Park.
The Kangaroos either needed to win the match, or if they lost they needed Burnside Heights to beat Coburg Districts, which was in fifth spot.
Sunbury threw everything at Oak Park in the battle of the Kangaroos, but fell agonisingly short, losing 15.7 (97)-15. (94).
Oak Park led for much of the first half, before Sunbury kicked seven goals in the third quarter to lead by nine points at the final break.
The lead changed several times in the final quarter with Oak Park able to do enough to get over the line.
Matthew Leonard kicked six goals for Sunbury, while skipper Mitch Streiff was named Sunbury’s best.
Nervous Sunbury fans were watching the other game with interest, with Burnside Heights sneaking home by one point to end Coburg Districts finals hopes and sealing Sunbury’s.
Sunbury now faces the Northern Saints in a knockout semi final in the first week of the finals.
East Sunbury ended its season with a big loss to Taylors Lakes, 26.16 (172)-4.5 (29).
The Lions controlled the game throughout and were able to extend the lead in every quarter.
Mitch Church and Mitchell Shields kicked two goals each for the Thunder. In good news for the club, the Thunder announced during the week that Church had re-signed for next season.
Nathan Sciberras was the Thunder’s best.
In division 1, Rupertswood warmed up for finals with a thrilling win against Deer Park.
Already knowing they would face each other in a qualifying final in the first week of finals, only bragging rights were on the line.
The Sharks were able to come away a second time this season with a win against the Lions winning 11.7 (73)-9.17 (71).
Clayton Bonello kicked five goals in the win with Logan Johnson named their best.
