BEARS Lagoon Serpentine’s season sits on a knife-edge, with the Bears now in sixth place on the ladder with just a single win after a 40-point loss to Marong.
The Bears finished fourth last season but have only a 10-point win to their credit against Inglewood, although that victory stands up well given the Woodies’ massive improvement this season.
With key forward Josh Mellington again missing with injury and having played only two games this season, Serp looks sadly undermanned against the better sides. But brighter days may be in store for the Bears, with matches against Maiden Gully, Mitiamo, Newbridge and Calivil in the next four weeks.
Serp fell behind early and trailed by 30 points at half-time, and despite a four-goals-to-three last quarter was unable to bridge the gap significantly.
Marong remains undefeated, and is once again clearly the team to beat as it pushes for a fourth flag on the trot.
Co-coach Kain Robins went goalless for the Panthers, but fellow forward Ryley Taylor stepped up with six majors. 
Noah McCaig was among Marong’s best with his four goals, while Jack McCaig, last season’s best-and-fairest Matthew Willox and the ever-reliable Jimmy Gadsden also played well.
Jaxon Addlem and Doolan Nihill were among the Bears’ best, while veteran ruckman Nathan Twigg chipped in with three goals in a strong performance.
- GARY WALSH