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Box Hill Hawks Win by One Point, Advance in VFL Finals Push
A one-point win at Box Hill City Oval keeps the Hawks' season alive, while Box Hill United's women's team splits results in a busy week of local sport.
How we reported this
Box Hill Hawks delivered a nail-biting one-point victory over the Richmond Tigers at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday, July 18, 2026, keeping their VFL finals hopes firmly in the hunt. In a match that swung back and forth, it was Jack Dalton who sealed the 82-83 win with his third goal of the game, sending the home crowd into a frenzy as the final siren sounded.
A Season-Defining Win
The win was crucial for the Hawks as they push towards the business end of the season. With the finals race tightening, every percentage point counts, and snatching a tight contest against a rival like Richmond could prove decisive. The narrow victory came on the back of a gritty defensive effort as much as Dalton's heroics up forward. Box Hill City Oval was packed with supporters who saw their team refuse to buckle under pressure.
The Hawks now turn their attention to the run home, needing to maintain momentum. A one-point win may not be pretty, but it builds belief in a squad that is finding ways to win the close ones, exactly the kind of form needed come finals time.
Box Hill United Women Split Results
Over in NPL Victoria Women action, Box Hill United FC's women's team had a mixed week. On Thursday, July 16, they defeated Boroondara Eagles FC 3-1 at home, a strong performance that showcased their attacking flair. But just a day later, on Friday, July 17, they faced Spring Hills FC and lost 1-0, a result that snapped their winning run.
The quick turnaround between matches tested the squad's depth and resilience. While the loss to Spring Hills is a setback, the earlier win over Boroondara showed the team's potential. Box Hill Women, as they are also known, had previously beaten Boroondara Eagles W 3-1 on July 10, meaning they have now taken maximum points from that opponent this season. Consistency against the rest of the league will be key as they aim for a finals berth.
What's Next for the Hawks and United?
With the VFL season heading towards its climax, the Box Hill Hawks will look to build on this victory in their next fixture. Jack Dalton's match-winning performance will be a talking point around the club, but the coaching staff will be demanding more complete four-quarter performances. For Box Hill United's women, the focus will be on regrouping after the loss to Spring Hills. Their next match offers a chance to bounce back and keep pressure on the top sides in NPL Victoria Women.
For local fans, the weekend's results underline that Box Hill remains a vibrant hub for sport, with both the Hawks and United providing plenty of drama and excitement as winter sports head towards their business end.