SCORESBY is likely to be without full-back Ben Wilson for its elimination semi-final against Balwyn this Sunday.
The Magpies' key defender injured his leg late in the first quarter of their 50-point loss to Vermont in the Eastern Football League division 1 qualifying final on Saturday.
In his absence, Eagles full-forward Jarrod Dalton kicked five goals to lead his side into the major semi-final against minor premiers Norwood this Saturday.
Kirby McConnon, Chris Hoegel and Jared Goldsack were named best players for the Magpies, with Hoegel adding four goals.
Magpies coach Scott Whyte said Wilson was "doubtful" to face the Tigers and would leave the team needing to alter its shape from its most successful line-up. "It was a pretty big loss, he allows us to structure up," Whyte said. "We had to move Mark Williams from full- forward to full-back to take Dalton."
Despite the loss to the Eagles and the expected absence of Wilson, the Magpies still believe they can go all the way this season. But their double chance is now used, meaning they have to be perfect from this point on.
Whyte said his side would bounce back. "We know we have to play at 100 per cent or we won't win games," he said. "This group has a lot of character. I know they will put in a massive week on the track and come out next match with all guns blazing."
Whyte said his side had started "really well" but had failed to take its opportunities early in the game. "Full credit to Vermont. They lifted their intensity and pressure and we couldn't go with them. If we had taken our opportunities in front of goal the result could have been different.
"But they worked hard to get their forwards one-on-one opportunities and they ended up with quite a few shots from 25-30 metres out, right in front, which shows in their kicking accuracy."