The East Coast Eagles went into their round 15 match against North Shore with mixed form over recent weeks. Two losses in the past three matches had the Eagles potentially dropping out of the top three and forfeiting the second chance come finals time. North Shore entered the match with similar recent form, and both teams knew the winner would take poll position in the race for the second chance. 

Windy conditions and a centre wicket that held more resemblance to a mud bath greeted the players as they entered the field, and by the end of the first quarter, the Eagles enjoyed only a slender advantage, despite controlling the majority of play. Darren Chapman (pictured) was relishing his opportunity to play forward, bagging one goal and attracting plenty of the football. The blustery conditions were causing havoc for most players in front of goal with the Eagles forwards kicking 2.5 to the Bombers 2.1.

The inclusion of big men Steve O’Connor and Anthony Stubbs gave the Eagles some more flexibility in the ruck and the on-ball brigade took full advantage. Scientists have been working hard lately, and have managed to clone Daniel Spiteri, the young rover seemingly in two places at once, racking up a career high 38 disposals including a classic ‘speccie’ mark on center wing and a freakish goal from the left forward pocket of the Commercial Road end of Bruce Purser Reserve.

The Bombers were held goalless in the second term, and managed just one goal during the second half. The Eagles backline has earned a reputation as a dour group and was again so, led by Steve Merkel and Kristian Pearson who repelled many North Shore advances as well as pushing forward to create opportunities further up the ground. Damien Charleston played his first match since dislocating his knee in round four, and the experienced utility showed that he will be an exciting addition to the team in any area of the ground.

While the windy conditions hampered the goal kicking prowess of the likes of Jamie Vlatko and Ben Rogers, the Eagles managed to secure the comfortable 50-point win - 10.17 77 to North Shore 3.9 27.

The Bombers will not be deterred, and will be a tough opponent come finals time, should the two teams cross paths. However, for now, the Eagles will be looking to keep hold of third spot and build up their form for the first final in four weeks time.