The tackling pressure of the Eagles was a major difference in the Round 10 match at Kyabram’s GV Creamery Oval when the home team lost the tackle count 48-73.
Mansfield leads the league in tackles, averaging 62 a game — 12 more than the 10th-ranked Bombers.
That round 10 contest went in favour of the Eagles 14.10 (94) to Kyabram’s 8.8 (56) — the slick-moving Mansfield team dominant on the back of Harry and Brett Mahoney.
Things didn’t go the Bombers way: Tom Holman and Kane Pettifer were kept goalless, Kaine Herbert had just 16 disposals (he averages 22) and even Lachie Smith was below his best (only six marks — averaging nine).
Mansfield had only seven more inside-50 entries, but Cameron Arnold’s five forward-50 marks and four goals were crucial to the victory.
The Eagles, who sit third on the ladder on the eve of the final two home-and-away rounds of the season, are ranked marginally behind the Bombers in contested football.
Kyabram is the third-ranked team in the competition, behind ladder leaders Echuca and Euroa, while Mansfield is fourth.
The teams are ranked first (Kyabram) and third when it comes to contested marks, while the comparison is also similar when it comes to forward-50 marks.
A victory is essential for the Bombers to keep their place in the top six.
Seymour (just a game behind the Bombers in seventh) should comfortably account for Tatura and Shepparton United in the final two rounds.
Kyabram needs to win both its remaining games — against the Eagles and Shepparton Swans — to maintain its finals ranking.
There is an eight percentage point difference between Kyabram and Seymour, which may play a part in the make-up of the final six.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Mansfield 14.10 (94) d Kyabram 8.8 (56)
Disposals: Mansfield (+45). Marks: Mansfield (+20). Tackles: Mansfield (+25)
Kyabram’s best: Cooper Vick kicked two goals, had 23 possessions and laid three tackles.
Mansfield’s best: Brett Mahoney had 33 disposals, six clearances and five tackles.
Tough day: Zach Keogh had seven free kicks paid against him, while key forwards Tom Holman and Kayne Pettifer were held goalless.