THE Sunbury Lions achieved a much-needed victory at the weekend, downing lowly-ranked Sebastopol by 12 goals at Clarke Oval.
The 48-36 win was the Lions' third for the season and was the result of a hard-running, disciplined defence and taking opportunities when they arrived.
Goal shooter Jacqui Stacey and goal attack Candace Smith led the forward set-up superbly.
Both were on fire from the beginning and showed a combination of superior movement, timing and finishing.
Sebastopol's goal defence Kaitlyn Ashmore battled gallantly all afternoon, however, superb supply from Lions' wings Alex Symonds and Ashleigh Danckert ensured a comfortable victory.
Unlike previous weeks, the Lions were able to control the ball through the centre of the court, working hard into space to create plenty of headaches for the opposition's defence.
Lions coach Lisa Taylor-Jones offered strong direction all afternoon, getting her side back on track after a subdued start to the season.
The Lions will face talent-laden Ballarat next week. A win would bring them back into finals calculations.
A logjam in the middle of the table looks set to tighten with several big clashes still remaining. Ballarat is coming off a comfortable 16-goal victory over Darley, and will be looking to cement a finals position.