By MARK CASHMAN

The dream to make the playoffs is alive and well for Eastern Suburbs after their gritty 24-14 win over Northern Suburbs in blustery conditions on Saturday.

The Beasties came into this game in need of a win after what has been a faltering start to their season and their coach Pauli Taumoepeau would have been pleased with their endeavour and derring do.

The sat on eight points with only a single win from their four games - 11 points out of the top six - and really needed to get the show underway if they wanted to play in the post season games.