The A's are defensively sound in most games - but has it had a negative impact on their ability to score goals?

A's coach Darren Duff put the theory to the test by sending out a more attacking line-up. The results were the same, but the goals were flying in.

Unfortunately, at both ends.

The goal hungry A's went down 6-4 to middle-of-the-ladder Doncaster at the State Netball and Hockey Centre on Tuesday night before a heavier 7-3 loss to title hopefuls Hawthorn at the same venue on Sunday.

"We're starting to get a few goals on the board and that's really important for our side," Duff said. "Prior to the last couple of games we've been very good in defence and keeping the opposition out. Now we've been focusing on scoring a few more because you don't win games unless you score goals."

Sunday's clash with Hawthorn, one of the most feared teams in state league, at the home of hockey took a predictable path.

"Tough game, absolutely," Duff said. "They're a quality side. It wouldn't surprise me if that's the team that ends up winning the final."

The A's stuck to their guns to be within touching distance at half-time of Sunday's twilight game. Matthew Higgins "ran his guts out" at inside-right, Jake McVean was solid at left-half and Steve Campbell didn't appear flustered at right full-back.

Chris Coleman was the A's' main attacking weapon with two goals from the penalty corners.

The A's were simply out-classed over 70 minutes.

"The boys put in a big effort," Duff said.

"We got overrun in the second half by a good-quality side."

The A's have only two-and-a-half wins in their account.

They have still managed to stay in the safety zone with Melbourne University and Albury-Wodonga holding up the ladder.

Meanwhile, Altona is human after all in the women's state league 2.

After 12 consecutive wins, the A's were finally tested-to-the-max in an pulsating 4-4 draw with CV Blazers in Bendigo on Saturday.

It was a stunning result considering the relegation-bound Blazers are winless and sitting rock bottom on the ladder.

The A's remain half a game ahead of second-placed Albury-Wodonga.