SUNSHINE Eagles have no time to waste to snap out of holiday mode, with the Berwick City Cougars arriving at Barclay Reserve for a critical Baseball Victoria summer league division 2 bout on Sunday.
The Eagles' season is at the crossroads with Shaun Moore's outfit sitting precariously in sixth position, and a result either way could spark a jump into the upper echelon or a tumble in the standings.
The Cougars are similarly placed, one place behind the Eagles and keen to get one up on a close rival on the ladder, meaning there will be plenty at stake for both clubs.
"It's been a really tight competition throughout," Moore said.
"You lose one game and you can drop a few spots. You don't want to be chasing the other teams in this competition."
The Eagles made a barnstorming end to the last calendar year, taking care of high-flying Bonbeach 6-0 at fortress Bicentennial Park a week after thrashing Chelsea 10-0.
Defensively, the Eagles are a force.
Starting pitchers Rory Meddick (0.79 ERA) and Adam Irons (2.65) are the main defensive factors.
"Our pitching is by far the best in the competition," Moore said.
Where the improvement has come for the Eagles since an inconsistent start to the season is in the batter's box.
Runs are flowing more freely and that's easing the burden on the defence.
With 19 hits and a .376 average, Brad Jones has led the way with the bat.
The run support does not end there, with Chad Galloway, Rohan Brasher, Shaun and Scott Moore and Shannon Hornstra also effective.