Berwick has been brought crashing back to earth following up its first win of the year with its heaviest defeat of the season.
South Croydon bested the Wickers 15.15(105) to 6.11(47), set up by a six goal to zero first quarter at Cheong Park.
While Berwick clawed its way back into the contest with a four-goal second quarter, they were again held goalless in the third quarter which put paid to a comeback.
Caleb Van Oostveen continued his strong month of form, while youngsters Tahj De La Rue, Daniel Pinter and Noah Cannon were also named in the best, with Sam Woodward the only multiple goal kicker.
The loss is a dagger for a young side, which had an opportunity to build momentum after last week’s upset, with South Croydon entering the clash with just one win and an inferior percentage and the winless Mitcham on the horizon in two weeks.
But the result is a stark reminder of the peaks and troughs that come with building a young side.
Eastern Premier Division will now have a week off for the King’s Birthday weekend, with round eight action taking place on Saturday 14 June.
EASTERN PREMIER DIVISION
SOUTH CROYDON 6.5 7.8 12.12 15.15(105)
BERWICK 0.0 4.3 4.4 6.11(47)
South Croydon Goals: Jayden Cass 2, Tyler Charlton 2, Thomas Sheridan 2, Ben Willis 2, James Fasan, Mason Helleren, Trent Marotta, Connor Smith, Flynn Smith, Thomas Taylor, James Wilsen. Best: Thomas Taylor, Liam Cox, Tom Schinck, Dylan Marshall, Thomas Sheridan, Mason Helleren.
Berwick Goals: Sam Woodward 2, Caydyn Lane, Jai Neal, Daniel Pinter, Ashton Williamson. Best: Caleb Van Oostveen, Noah Cannon, Daniel Pinter, Tom Brennan, Tahj De La Rue, Will Arthurson.
R7 Results: Rowville 8.10 58 v Doncaster 13.8 86, Vermont 9.7 61 v East Ringwood 13.14 92, Blackburn 16.15 115 v Mitcham 9.7 61.
Ladder: East Ringwood 28, Blackburn 24, Rowville 16, Balwyn 16, Doncaster East 16, South Croydon 8, Noble Park 8, Berwick 4, Mitcham 0.
R8 Fixture – Saturday 14 June: East Ringwood v Balwyn, Mitcham v Rowville, Doncaster East v Noble Park, South Croydon v Vermont, Berwick v Blackburn.
