The Seahawks fought off an onslaught from Shepparton star Justin Patton to notch a seven-point victory at home on Saturday night.

Matt Alexander’s men were buoyed by a spread of contributors, with import Xavier Johnson-Blount dropping 30 points with 10 rebounds to register a double-double.

Coupled with his four assists, Johnson-Blount’s performance was among the best on the court.

Big-man Brock Carter (12 points, 10 rebounds) and Tim Gainey (13 points, eight rebounds) were also serviceable in the seven-point victory.

Gainey said the Seahawks had taken a conservative approach with Gynes as they timed their run into finals.

“I mean, it was good in that we didn’t have Alex because we thought we’d rest him up for finals,” the 250-gamer said.

“He’ll play next week and having a full team is going to be a really good thing as I think we’re heading down to La Trobe. 

“It’s going to be a long trip, but we’re looking forward to the challenge and we’re confident in the game plan Matt gives us.”

The 34-year-old hailed the impact of the Seahawks younger brigade, who stepped up in Gynes’ absence.

“It was good to get some of our younger players to be more assertive. I thought Dion Smith, Josh Dean and James Mitchell were fantastic. They had increased minutes in Alex’s absence,” he said.

“We were trying to get our structure down pat for finals, making sure we used our offence and hit our shots.

“We wanted to hit our shots and make sure we took advantage when mis-matches presented themselves.”

Gainey said a spread of contributors meant the Seahawks had more avenues to the hoop as opposition defences went after Johnson-Blount.

“With their attention on him, it means myself and the younger guys can hit those open shots,” he said.

“I think if you look at the stats, we had about six guys in double figures. Having that even spread makes it easier and it helps out the defence too.

“It makes us focus because everybody has to guard.”

Meanwhile, the Mermaids secured a vital road win to carry strong form into a week’s rest after finishing atop the Big V division two women ladder.

Louise Brown’s side posted a 17-point triumph over North East Bushrangers in Wodonga, with youngster Molly McKinnon contributing 22 points.

Holly Greene managed 15 rebounds and 10 points to register a double-double, while forward Maddy White posted 11 points and 10 rebounds.