By Jonty Ralphsmith
After keeping top-placed Hampton Park to a draw last week, Pakenham was unable to capitalise on a big opportunity to secure three points.
Facing Barton, just one spot above bottom-placed United on the ladder, Pakenham put the only goal of the first half on the board, via Thom Lino.
But Barton was able to equalise early in the second half, and then found the back of the net twice more after a patient second half to secure a 3-1 win.
Meanwhile, Hampton Park had another draw, this time with Mentone.
Casey got on the board first against Mount Martha before the game settled into a rhythm for the first half.
Mount Martha got one straight after halftime and then took a 2-1 lead before a late Casey goal ensured the Panthers came away from the game with a point.
Bunyip had a convincing 5-1 win over Aspendale.
Results: Bunyip 5 v Aspendale 1, Rosebud 3 v Mount Eliza 1, Barton 3 v Pakenham 1, Mentone 1 v Hampton Park 1, Mount Martha 2 v Casey 2.
Final 2023 ladder: Hampton Park 52, Mentone 40, Seaford 37, Rosebud 35, Casey 33, Aspendale 32, Bunyip 32, Mount Martha 29, Mount Eliza 16, Pakenham 10, Barton 4.
