Sandringham's finals aspirations are under threat following a heartbreaking ten-point loss to the Casey Demons at Trevor Barker Oval on Saturday.

The Demons jumped out of the blocks early with the first two goals before the Zebras were able to register their first major at the 16 minute mark.

Despite the 15-point deficit at quarter time, Lindsay Gilbee’s team took charge in a second term where his side produced a seven goal quarter to open a 28-point half-time lead.

In a game that produced heavy hits and was physical on a windy afternoon at Beach Rd, Casey swung the momentum back in their favour after half-time to stun the Zebras that saw the two sides level just beforethree-quarterr time.

The last quarter produced one for the ages where the lead changed four times between the two sides but the Demons’ endeavour and will to win eventually shone through for the win, the Zebras feeling the loss of important swingman Nathan Wright before the last break.

Injury watch

St Kilda utility Nathan Wright suffered a bad ankle injury against the Demons in the third term that is expected to end his season. 

Standout Zebras

The return of Jack Lonie after successive weeks at AFL level showed his class when he dons the Sandringham colours, finishing with a game-high 34 disposals and two goals.

Midfielder Nick O’Kearney was another to be among the best with 23 disposals in the heartbreaking loss to the finals bound Casey.

The next challenge

With the bye earmarked for round 17 next week, the Zebras won’t return to the field until Sunday, 20th August when they travel to Punt Road Oval to face an in-form Richmond.