STRATHDALE'S hopes of forcing its way into the Bendigo Amateur Soccer League's men's championship top two will hinge on the outcome of its round 10 clash against Eaglehawk.
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The Blues head to Truscott Reserve on Sunday four points behind the Hawks on the championship ladder, with four rounds remaining after this weekend's contest.
They will be buoyed by a 1-0 win against Eaglehawk in round three, when Justin Sartori slotted the game winner.
Strathdale is coming off a bye, while Eaglehawk was made to work all the way for a 2-1 win against Spring Gully United.
Coach Greg Thomas was one of two goal scorers for the Hawks in only his second match back after a more than a month off with injury.
A Hawks win would see them momentarily take over top spot from Epsom, which has the bye.
Wins have been rare for Golden City and Spring Gully United ahead of their clash at Shadforth No. 1.
United won their earelier season encounter 6-2, aided by three goals from Alex Rothmeier.
They pushed Eaglehawk all the way last round and will start the game favourites, having the better record with two wins to Golden City's one
The Rams though are capable of the upset, despite an 8-2 loss to Moama-Echuca last round.
The Border Raiders will look to continue their good season against winless Colts United.
Basile Gentil scored four times in the win against Golden City and looms as player Colts United must stop if it is to have a chance of a breakthrough win.
Eaglehawk and Strathdale clash in the top women's championship clash, with both teams entering the clash on 16 points.
The fifth-placed Blues won their earlier season contest 5-3 and were in good form during a 4-2 win against Swan Hill last round.
They will need to stop Amy Skvarc (15), Charlotte Edlin (10) and Grace Edlin (5), who have combined for 30 goals this season for the Hawks.
Moama-Echuca is also eyeing a rise up the ladder, when it hosts Colts United in Moama.
The Border Raiders accounted for Golden City 4-3 last round and defeated United in their earlier season encounter 4-3 after a hat-trick of goals from Cassandre Powell, who has not played since late June.
In other games, Golden City hosts Spring Gully United and Epsom meets Swan Hill.
