Last week’s game proved telling for the Hawthorn Spartans, who took on ladder leader Old Xaverians at home.

The Old Xaverians were on a perfect run, 11 wins for no losses, but the Spartans came out early, piling on five-goals-to-one in a telling first quarter.

Despite the solid start the Old Xaverians closed the margin to a solitary goal at the main break, but again the depleted Spartans piled on the pressure, slamming six-goals-to-one in the second half to set up a famous 38 point victory, and one that will see them head into the finals in high spirits.

A big five goal haul from Dan Lauletta helped set up the win.

Today the Spartans take on fifth-placed Prahran Assumption at home, with the first bounce scheduled for 11.40 am.

Fans are also urged to attend the annual Delphi Bank Souvlaki Day that gets under way before the first bounce, which will help raise funds for the club.