From the jump, it was clear the Eagles had a point to prove, nailing a trio of goals along with a spattering of behinds, while limiting the Lions to just one major to get their day under way.
However, Stanhope roared back into the contest in the second period with four majors added to the tally.
Shepparton East wasn’t going to slow down either, banking another 4.3 to keep ahead despite a diminishing lead at half-time.
A slower third term from the Lions (1.4) meant the scoreboard pressure dropped away from the Eagles, who continued on their breakneck pace (4.5).
A valiant effort from Stanhope (3.3) down the stretch wasn’t enough to pull them back into the contest, with Shepparton East’s (4.1) goal-kicking prowess too much to handle late in the game.
The final score was Stanhope 9.7 (61) to Shepparton East 15.12 (102).
Christian Hatzis and Hamish Stewart led the way in front of goal for the Lions with two majors apiece, while Craig Emmett, Matthew Ludbrook, Oliver Silk, Jonathan Pearson, Broady Dow and Falcon Taurua were honoured as the team’s best.
The loss to the Eagles has levelled out Stanhope’s season at 3-3, which puts it firmly in the mid-table mire along with Rushworth, Avenel and Longwood and on the outside of the finals picture looking in.
The Lions will have a fight on their hands in round eight, travelling to Violet Town Recreation Reserve to do battle with the Towners.
