THE Canberra Demons have a top two finish in sights after their seventh straight victory on Saturday, easily accounting for Redland by 40 points at UNSW Canberra Oval.
The Demons had a slow start but recovered in style with a dominant second quarter on their way to a 20.14 (134) to 14.10 (94) victory.
Both teams were consistent and accurate in front of goals with Canberra sharing the impact on the scoreboard between 13 goal kickers.
Sam Tonkes and Jack Powell booted three majors each and Redland’s Caleb Franks and Matthew Hammellmann also kicked three apiece.
It was high pressure footy from the first bounce, with the ball trailing into both teams forward 50, but it was Jackson Paine who could convert it and nail the first goal in the opening minutes.
By the end of the first term, Canberra were in front by only 15 points in a quarter which saw eight goals kicked by the two teams.
The second quarter saw the Demons take control with their quick ball movement. Alex Smout kicked the first goal of the second term in the first minute, which opened the floodgates for five more goals before half-time.
Trailing by 46 points at the main break, Redland came out determined to not give up and dominated the third quarter with 4.5 to 2.2.
Both teams ended the game with nothing left in the tank, but it was Demons who were the stronger side in the end finishing with a final seven goals to six that pushed them over for the win.
Jarrod Osborne was incredible for the Demons with 24 disposals and one goal, and the power trio were in fine form again with Isaac Taylor, Mitch Maguire and Alex Smout all securing the most disposals of the game.
Smout was the leader with a whopping 37 touches.
While Redland were unable to walk away with the win, some of their individual performers stood up and played great games of footy.
Franks, Adrian Williams and Jai Kennealy were among their best.
While Demons dominated nearly every aspect of the game, Redland controlled the hit-outs 72-40, highlighting the skill of ruckman Craig Malone (59 hit-outs).
The Demons continue to make history each week challenging teams with their fast paced and high pressure style of football, but they will be tested in the next few weeks in their run home to finals.
Round 16 sees Canberra face NT Thunder in Darwin, while Redland take on Aspley at home.
Canberra Demons v Redland Bombers at UNSW Canberra Oval:
CANBERRA 5.3 11.9 13.11 20.14 (134)
REDLAND 3.0 4.3 8.8 14.10 (94)
