The Hoppers are fifth but are just a win and percentage behind third-placed Wodonga Raiders.

“I think in the three years I’ve coached that’s the most wins we’ve had and that’s good with three games to go, nine wins so far, but we want a couple more,” Akermanis said.

North kept alive its chances of a top-three finish with Saturday’s 53-point home win over the Wangaratta Rovers, but it faces a much bigger challenge at Yarrawonga this weekend.

The Rovers are second last and need to keep winning to avoid the wooden spoon.

“We didn’t hit targets and there was some poor decision-making and when your body is a bit tired and you are on the younger side, you make those mistakes,” coach Paul Maher said.

Meanwhile, Wodonga small forward Bryce Garvey will contest a striking charge at the tribunal on Wednesday night.