The Box Hill Hawks lost to the premier side in the competition by 23 points at Burbank Oval but did not lose any respect in the process with a gutsy four-quarter effort.

Leading by five points at half-time the Hawks unlikely leaders were overrun by a six goal third quarter by the Seagulls.

Box Hill in touching distance throughout the match Williamstown grasping the lead again late in the match after leading for most took away the four points.

Williamstown’s class with its ability to create run through the midfield in quick bursts setting up forward play placed the lid on the Hawks.

After an explosive start by Williamstown with the first three goals, Box Hill brought back the deficit to 7 at the opening change.

Stuart Dew playing half the game in his return match from a quad injury kicked two goals in the 2nd as Box Hill raced to a ten point lead.

Restoring the faith of its own supporters, Williamstown kicked 6.6 to 1.0 in the third to march to a 31 point lead the biggest of the match.

Adem Yze 21 disposals tried hard to bring back the Hawks with two early final quarter goals but it just wasn’t enough.

Still each time the Seagulls looked to break away it was the Hawks that pegged back the margin and it was done with their willingness to chase and tackle at every opportunity.

Equally both sides had everything to play for with finals looming ever closer and Box Hill looking to collect another scalp after taking down 2nd placed North Ballarat.

Travis Tuck led the Hawks on field with 28 disposals while Co-Captain Steve Kenna 20 disposals outstanding yet again, as he has been all year was a standout.

Hawthorn rookie Haydn Kiel off half-back with 17 possessions played with strength as Box Hill’s best in his best match for the season.

Brendan Whitecross collected 22 disposals and Beau Muston 24 in strong performances.

Burbank Oval’s harsh conditions again played true with wind affecting a number of shots on goal and delivery when making play.

Box Hill can look at the game with satisfaction knowing they came close, just falling short in a hard day at the office.

Brendon Bolton’s chargers stay in 6th position on the VFL Ladder while Williamstown break away from the pack in 1st position at 11-2.

Box Hill next host Port Melbourne in a battle where Box Hill will look to re-claim what was lost earlier in the season at TEAC Oval.

Williamstown: 3.5 / 4.8 / 10.14 / 11.19.85    
Box Hill Hawks: 2.4 / 5.7 / 6.7 / 9.6.62    

Goals: S. Dew 3, A. Yze 2, S. Iles, J. Lisle, C. Stokes, C. Pedersen

Best: H. Kiel, A. Yze, T. Tuck, S. Kenna, B. Whitecross, S. Dew