The Lions had the game on their terms for the entirety of the Kyabram District League round 14 encounter and raced away to record a stunning 29.14 (188) to 3.8 (26) win.
The foundations for Stanhope’s victory came in an opening quarter blitz at Merrigum Recreation Reserve.
Stanhope piled on six goals to zip in a whirlwind 30-minute period that left the home side behind the eight-ball.
“The first quarter was the most pleasing aspect of the win, I thought,” Patten said.
“It helped set the game up nicely and it was probably the best brand of footy we have played in a number of weeks.
“I know that they had a few out which made life a bit easier for us, but they’re still a top-eight side and it’s always great to get wins over sides in the eight.”
Star onballer Ryan Semmel was at his damaging best, even if it was for only half of the match.
Semmel booted eight goals in the win and only played two quarters of the match due to other personal commitments.
Patten praised the gun midfielder-forward’s ability to break the lines and use his booming kick to open the play.
Forward Jye Adamson chipped in with three goals as he continued his sublime season, while Jono Pearson booted five majors.
Josh Harris was lively in the midfield and stood out with his clearance work.
Darcy Collins and Tom Cooper both registered strong outings for Merrigum.
Stanhope’s win was a great way to celebrate two club favourites.
Patten’s son Jye brought up his 200th club appearance, while Stuart Trevena played his 100th match for the Lions.
“It was good for those two boys to enjoy a win,” Patten said.
“(Trevena) he’s a coaches dream; you know what you’ll get from him each week. And my young bloke has been a great servant at the club in his time here.
“The club’s pretty vibrant at the moment and socially it’s a great place to be.”
Around the grounds, Lancaster fended off a determined Girgarre in style.
Lancaster, up against a Roos outfit that’s chasing a spot in the top eight, went on to record a 102-point triumph.
Nick Ryan was influential with five goals for the Wombats, while Coby O’Neill played a starring role in the ruck.
Rex Taylor and Jack Oogjes both stood tall for Girgarre in the 17.13 (115) to 1.7 (13) defeat.
Lastly, Murchison-Toolamba held on to second spot on the ladder with a 270-point thrashing of Rushworth.
The Grasshoppers were emphatic in the 40.36 (276) to 1.0 (6) triumph.
Talented forward Ashton Cashion led the way with 10 majors, while Aidan Lloyd and Michael Coad booted nine and eight goals respectively.
