The Strikers have moved to within one point of ladder-leaders University of Melbourne, which it beat 3-1 on Sunday.

Because of its superior goal difference, Ballarat now just needs a draw in the rescheduled clash with third-placed North Geelong Warriors to lift the trophy.

That game has to be replayed after it was abandoned during the early stages in round 17 because of an injury to a North Geelong player.

Lulu Al-Huneidi was the hero against University of Melbourne on Sunday, with her hat-trick the catalyst in the vital 3-1 triumph.

The Strikers got off to a flying start from a corner when Al-Huneidi pounced on a shot from Tessa Curtain to open the scoring in the third minute of the game.

University of Melbourne looked to get a quick equaliser and committed to four players up front, but the gamble did not pay off as the visitors were able to exploit the space in the midfield with a lovely cross from Erin Plucke, which Al-Huneidi headed home for her second goal in the 23rd minute.

The Ballarat girls picked up a third in the 68th minute when Jordan Ivey’s cross again found Al-Huneidi in the box. Her resulting header was well saved by the goal-keeper, but Al-Huneidi punished the spilled ball to extend the lead.

University of Melbourne then got one back from the restart, which set up an anxious final 20 minutes for the Strikers, which were able to hang on and take all three points.

Ballarat assistant coach Laura Brady said she expected a high-tempered encounter with North Geelong on Wednesday night.

“The focus for the Eureka Strikers will be on managing the emotions on the pitch and remaining committed to the roles they each have to play,” Brady said.

“Recovery from the tough game this Sunday will also be key.”

North Geelong heads into the clash on the back of a 3-1 loss to second-bottom side Preston Lions on Sunday.