The Clays led the sixth-placed Lions by 16 points at quarter time, and after seven goals to one in the second term, went into the half-time break 40 points up and seemingly with the four points safely in their grasp.

But the roles were reversed in the third quarter when South Yarra booted seven goals to two to trail by just five points going into the final quarter.

Faced with a fight on their hands, the Clays responded like a premiership contender should, and put down any resistance with a five goals to three final term to win, 17.12 (114) to 13.15 (93).

Clayton coach and spearhead Richard Szerszyn kicked four goals and was one of nine goalkickers for the Clays, who are on top of the ladder a game clear of Oakleigh District, which had an easy 87-point win against seventh-placed Caulfield.

The District led by 15 points at quarter time and stretched the lead to 30 points at half-time.

Five unanswered goals in the third term put the result beyond doubt as Oakleigh powered away in the final term to win, 16.18 (114) to 4.3 (27).

Matt Sheehan was unstoppable up forward, booting five goals, while Joshua Wright and Hadrian Prest booted four goals each for Oakleigh, which is on 40 points with Skye, but has superior percentage.

Division 3 ladder leaders Mt Waverley, cruised to a percentage-boosting 144- point win over a hapless Dandenong Demons.

The Mountain Lions set the tone for the match with 10 unanswered first-half goals. The third-placed Demons scored their first goal midway through the third term, and their second soon after. Mt Waverley flexed its muscle in the final term and showed why its an unbackable premiership favourite with six unanswered goals to win, 25.25 (175) to 4.7 (31).

Robert Donnelly led the Lions' goalkicking spree with five, Martin Lavis booted four, and they were among 10 individual goalkickers for the winners.

The Lions are an amazing 18 points clear of second-placed Sandown with five games remaining.