LEETON-WHITTON held off a determined Griffith to claim a thrilling four-point victory in the local derby at Exies Oval on Saturday.
Little separated the two teams all day but it was the Crows who finished the stronger and held on for an important victory, 11.12 (78) to 11.8 (74).
Griffith started strongly and held a narrow five-point lead at half-time.
The Crows had a good third quarter and booted three goals to one to take a nine-point advantage into the final break.
Griffith kicked the first goal of the final term to draw within three points but the Crows responded with the next two goals to clinch a thrilling win.
It was the Crows leaders who stood up with Toby Conroy, Neil Irwin, Bryce O’Garey and Ben Curley all instrumental in the win.
Brad Boots celebrated his 150th game for the Crows in style with a top performance.
It sets up a big game for the Crows as they host the top-of-the-table clash against MCUE on Saturday.
Full-time
LEETON-WHITTON (78)
2.3 6.6 9.10 11.12
GRIFFITH (74)
3.4 7.5 8.7 11.8
Goals: (Leeton-Whitton) N Irwin 3, L Meline, M Wescombe, M Hardie, B O’Garey, T Handsaker, T Conroy, C Griggs; (Griffith) W Griggs 2, H Delves 2, B King 2, J Toscan 2, M Duncan 2, B Mathews.
Best: (Leeton-Whitton) T Conroy, N Irwin, B Boots, B O’Garey, B Curley, M Heaslip; (Griffith) B King, W Griggs, M Duncan, J Hamilton, C Cerato, D Peruzzi.
