BOX HILL Hawks produced a final quarter comeback, but couldn’t run down reigning VFL premier Williamstown at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday afternoon.

The Hawks were in the contest for much of the afternoon, before going down by 10 points, 12.8 (80) to the Seagulls’ 13.12 (90).

After an even first half, Williamstown kicked ahead to a 23-point advantage at three-quarter time – and a five-goal lead early in the final quarter.

But the Hawks fought back within two kicks before time ran out.

Hawthorn-listed utility Brendan Whitecross was again a standout for Box Hill, pressing his claims for an AFL call-up.

Whitecross was named as the Hawks’ best, collecting 33 disposals, plus 11 marks, three inside 50s and three rebound 50s.

Fellow Hawthorn-listed players Angus Litherland, Kieran Lovell and Teia Miles were also named among the Hawks’ best.

Litherland collected 25 disposals and eight rebound 50s, Lovell won eight clearances to go with 23 disposals, and Miles kicked two goals along with his 22 disposals.

Jonathan O’Rourke (23 disposals) and Dallas Willsmore (21 disposals) returned from injury, while Kade Stewart also bobbed up with two goals.

BOX HILL HAWKS     3.0     7.2     8.4     12.8 (80)
WILLIAMSTOWN     4.4     8.7     11.9     13.12 (90)

Box Hill goals: Switkowski 3, Miles 2, Summers 2, Stewart 2, O’Brien, Iles, Willsmore.
Box Hill best: Whitecross, Switkowski, Litherland, Lovell, Mirra, Miles