PINES has the remarkable opportunity to go one game clear in second place on the ladder with a victory over Karingal when MPNFL Peninsula Division football resumes this weekend.
The Pythons have a renewed spirit down at the pit and have played good football against good opposition, pushing Mt Eliza to a point and beating an undermanned Seaford.
However, the real test comes over the next fortnight, when they first tackle the Bulls and then face the all-conquering Frankston YCW.
Karingal has also been impressive this season and should it beat Pines, will go a game clear in second place. Both sides are equal on four wins.
Frankston YCW takes on Langwarrin, in what will be a very tough assignment for the Kangas. The Stonecats have unbelievable strength on every line and the best midfield in the competition in Steven Roberts, Ben Poole, Ben Tellis and Lewis Roberts.
Chelsea plays Mt Eliza which has been rocked by injuries with the likes of Dan Gormley, Corey Hamilton, Ian Zwar and Chris King missing. Zwar and King will probably be out for the entire season. However, the Mounties will win.
Mornington takes on Seaford and has a tough job on its hands. Seaford is missing Don Epa and Chris Irving terribly while it can't get its best side on the track at the one time. There will be up to six players missing from the team that lost to Pines.
Its r 'almost good enough' will be sufficient to beat Mornington. Josh Beard is doing a good job with the rebuilding of the club and it's important the club supports him in this very tough period. Skipper Chris Paxino has been outstanding.
Edithvale has been a surprise packet and is placed fifth with some inspired leadership from coach Mark Alves. It should prove too good for Bonbeach which is at the other end of the ladder. They should had a tough gig but has done brilliantly, his side in fifth place on the ladder.
Bonbeach has been at the opposite end of the scale, disappointing to say the least. Just two wins from five games isn't what was expected, however, with Shane McDonald in form and Danny Cassett about to resume, the Sharks could be the second-half movers.