Youth and experience again combined with good effect in the 45-19 victory at Walter Oval, which kept the Power in fifth spot on the ladder.

But a 36-all draw between Merrivale and Allansford has complicated the run home and seven sides still have genuine chances to make the top five.

“It’s that tight, it’s unbelievable. Merrivale and Allansford drawing today has thrown a spanner in the works,” Justin said.

“I was hoping Merrivale would win and that’d give us breathing space away from Allansford. But now it’s kept us in touch with Merrivale and Allansford are still in touch with us.”

Merrivale, Kolora-Noorat, Allansford and Deakin University are the four sides vying for two elimination finals berths.

Adding to the tension is the fact the Sharks play the other three in rounds 15, 17 and 18.

“Somehow I can see an upset win to another team might put us out,” Justin said.

“It’s going be that tight that maybe it’s not up to us. We have to win every game we can and see where that takes us.”

Justin said she was pleased with the even effort from her players against the Lions.

They increased their lead the longer the match went on, with a 15-4 second term their best period of the match.

Power goal keeper Tania Barbary was best on court, with her voice and leadership in the back court influential.

Wing defence Laura Bourke and wing attack Molly Bourke were among the visitors’ best while Linda Clifford hit 30 goals.

“I thought it was a really consistent game for everybody on the court,” Justin said.

The Lions named wing attack Lisa Pender, centre Melissa Blackberry and defender Natalie Inia their best.

Dennington was largely untroubled in beating East Warrnambool 48-26 at Reid Oval in the other A grade match on Saturday as part of the split round.