The Lakers kicked two goals in the opening stanza at Nagambie Recreation Reserve to take a slim advantage in the early stages of the game, Stanhope’s defence held up despite only kicking a sole behind by quarter-time.
Both sides found their groove in the second period, with the Lions nailing four goals to romp back into the contest and trail by a single point at the major break.
Continuing its form into the third term, Stanhope stole the lead from the Lakers after booting five majors and holding its opposition to three goals.
The Lions held a five-point lead heading into the final frame and kept good pace to notch a huge win over the Lakers when they kicked another three goals to end their day.
However, Nagambie was that little better.
The Lakers did what great teams do in the face of adversity, ripping the momentum away from Stanhope and nailing their chances with six majors going through the sticks.
As the full-time siren sounded, Stanhope 12.4 (76) fell just shy of a remarkable triumph against Nagambie 13.13 (91) with the Lions maintaining their position just outside the finals frame.
Jonathan Pearson was clearly the most valuable player for Stanhope in the contest, kicking a bag of 10 goals.
The Lions will have a good chance to bounce back where they face a fellow Lions outfit Undera at Stanhope Recreation Reserve in round 13.
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