The Dragons’ 15th win of the season maintained their one game break over second-placed Gisborne ahead of their top-two clash next week at the QEO.

But Sandhurst’s superior percentage means that not even a Bulldogs win can dislodge the Dragons from top spot.

The Dragons and Bulldogs played out a thrilling draw in round nine.

Kangaroo Flat’s loss ended a run of four consecutive victories and dropped the Roos to fifth place on the ladder.

The move down the ladder will have no bearing on finals, with the Roos destined to meet Eaglehawk in a cut-throat elimination final in a fortnight’s time.

Their effort on Saturday was considerably better than their last performance against Sandhurst, when beaten 62-25.

Meanwhile, Golden Square sealed the double chance with a convincing 80-25 home win over Kyneton.

The victory delivered the Bulldogs third spot and a first-up finals date with Gisborne, who defeated Maryborough by 29 goals.

South Bendigo made amends for an earlier season loss to Strathfieldsaye by defeating the Storm by nine goals.

The Bloods’ 50-41 win was their seventh for the year and allowed them to move into sixth position on the ladder, two points clear of the Storm and four points ahead of Maryborough.

Finals-bound Eaglehawk was too strong for Castlemaine and won 64-18.

The Hawks round out their finals preparations next week with a home clash against Maryborough.