It was nine rounds in to the Southern Football League season before the weekend's grudge matches. GILBERT GARDINER takes a look at your team's fortunes, past and future, at the half-way point.
SOUTHERN FOOTBALL LEAGUE
DIVISION ONE
CLAYTON
IT'S all positive for the Clays, who find themselves a game clear in fourth place. The side, which has been hampered by injuries, is ready to field full-strength squads - barring further mishap - for the rest of the season.
Coach Darren Hulme said while it took a while for his team to gel, it looks like it is beginning to come together at the half-way point.
The Clays, whose three losses have come from the three sides ahead of them, will be looking forward to redemption.
SPRINGVALE DISTRICTS
THE Demons' move to division one hasn't been ideal with the club sitting on two wins and in eighth place.
Coach Stephen Hughes said: "Apart from the Chelsea Heights game, we've rarely put four quarters of quality footy together.
"The team needs the more experienced senior players to stand up and play consistent football.''
Brad Scott has been terrific winning the hard ball, while Dean Kovacic has excelled playing out of position and without much support in the ruck.
"The aim now is to stick to the game plan and play each quarter on its merits.''
DIVISION TWO
OAKLEIGH DISTRICTS
THE Districts are within striking distance of fourth-placed Caulfield, but will have to find a way to win the close games to start improving.
Coach Andrew Morwood said his charges had shown they could match it with the top sides in division two.
The side has been fortunate to avoid serious injuries to key players. Big man Grant Pitts returns from a broken ankle and will make his presence felt.
Matt Featherston, Paul Fermanis and William La Marca have stood out in a season of great team performances.
ASHWOOD
A SHWOOD is looming as a big threat for 2009, having picked up 40 new players in two seasons, with 50 under age 25 making it one of the youngest sides in division two.
Coach Paul Hattersley is happy the young crop is learning to play senior football while still remaining competitive.
"We're a good side, there's no doubt, that's playing patchy footy. It boils down to inexperience and not always having our best 22 on the field.''
Aiming to close the gap with the top four, Hattersley said there were plenty of guys in the ressies pushing hard for places.
DIVISION THREE
MT WAVERLEY
IT'S all good for the Mounters, who the turn the corner undefeated and two games clear from nearest rival South Yarra. Coach Steve Muscat puts the team's success down to its depth and experience.
"We're a lot better than last year and the boys are really working on their fitness.''
Nick Hayes, Tim Fulton and Chris Coleman have really impressed and helped the club move along.
The aim is to "maintain the pressure on the opposition, we believe we're the best going around and we're out to prove it''.
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