Reigning premier Darley and Melton changed the complexion of the Ballarat Football League premiership race by taking down the top two sides in the last home and away round on Saturday.
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Melton made the biggest impact with a spirited seven-point win over Bacchus Marsh – made all the more impressive with it being at Maddingley Park.
While the Bloods moved up to third, North Ballarat City gained the most from the result.
North, which sat out round 18 with a bye, moved to second and with it the double chance and a qualifying final clash with East Point at the Eastern Oval.
East Point will go into that encounter off a loss to Darley, which again looms as a major premiership threat as it strives for three flags in four years.
For Bacchus Marsh, going down to Melton was much more than losing an opportunity for four premiership points.
The Cobras went from second to fifth, which sends it into an elimination final against arch-rival Darley, made all the more difficult by being at Darley Park.
Sixth-placed Lake Wendouree also lost to Sunbury, but it had no impact on its position and it will face Melton.
