THE Bulldogs need to beat Eastern Suburbs here on Sunday if they are to retain their spot in the top six in what is becoming an intense competition for a place in the finals.
Tuesday's 4-1 win over Queensland University has them clinging by their fingertips to sixth place, but Easts, Brisbane City and Lions all have a game in hand and if they win Capalaba will drop back.
In the strong women's teams, Capalaba FC is celebrating the news that Jeanette Osborne (U17 Div 1 Girls) has been awarded the coveted Pierre de Coubertin Award for 2012 by the Queensland Olympic Council.
With three players out on suspension in the Veto League, and others unavailable because of job commitments, the Bulldogs fielded a number of reserve players who proved more than capable in the match against Uni.
Capalaba dominated the game from the kick-off, and Red Rock Noodle Bar Man of the Match Jaspal Benning put in a claim for a run-on place next week with two goals.
He could have scored a hat-trick but was brought down in the box and Greg Warden made no mistake from the spot.
The defence was outstanding, Geoff Hurford marshalling his back line well, Sean Curtis pulling off a couple of brilliant slide tackles on the few times Uni looked dangerous, and Zac Brattan in full control.
Warden played a key role in two goals, Scott Sargent snapping up the rebound from one of his drives then he put a lovely ball through to Benning who out-witted Uni keeper Tim Allen.
Mitch Thorn was outstanding in goal, making at least three great saves, and was beaten only by a clever chip shot by Matt Riggs.
Joel Drewek was a powerhouse on the left, creating a number of attacks, and was rewarded when he put a top ball through to Benning who restored the gap.
The match was in sharp contrast with the disappointing 2-0 loss to Olympic on Sunday, a comedy of errors with both sides making basic mistakes.
Best of the Bulldogs was Red Rock Noodle Bar Man of the Match Drewek, but for many others it was a performance they would rather forget.
Alex Schiavo scored the only goal in the reserves' 4-1 loss, Joey Field taking out the Red Rock Noodle Bar Man of the Match award.
Sunday's games here against Easts kick off at 2.45pm and 5pm.
Other results: The SEQFL Capalaba Bulldogs beat Bayside Eaglwes 3-2, with Damien O'Connor scoring a hat-trick.
The Strikers collected 3 points when Teviot Downs forfeited. Both teams are playing at home on Friday night, the Strikers v Bayside Eagles at 6.30pm and Bulldogs v Park Ridge Panthers at 8.30pm.
The Div 5 Women's team smashed Logan Village 5-0 .
