The Saints honoured veteran Chris Cameron’s 262nd appearance for the club, which takes him to outright second on the club’s list of most games played behind Graham Ellis.

The victory was dedicated to Cameron’s ailing father Bruce, a long-time trainer for the Saints, who has been in hospital.

Tim Cooper made the most of his few opportunities with five goals as the Saints claimed the four points for the first time this season 12.13 (85) to 11.11 (77) after struggling to field two teams earlier in season.

Youngster Steve Littlejohn produced a best on ground performance from the back pocket and has been the club’s best contributor all year, while Craig and Paul Glanvill won plenty of the ball across the half-forward flank and on the wing.

“I told the boys to go out and enjoy themselves after the game because it’s been a while coming and a really tough start to the year,” coach Barry Roe said yesterday.

“After playing finals last year we were hoping for another good year but numbers have just killed us.

“There were some fantastic performances yesterday and we won all four grades of footy which is tough enough to do at anytime, so there was a bit of a buzz at the club last night.

“It’s going to be a tough run for us now with a lot of games against the top teams, but our numbers are at a good level again and we’ll keep fighting on.”

Picola United bounced back with a convincing victory against Katandra.

Dean Holyman and Scott McKenzie chipped in six goals apiece as the Blues ran out winners 18.12 (120) to 9.15 (69).

Shaun Downie’s six-goal haul helped Yarroweyah to a 14.9 (93) to 12.15 (87) win over Mathoura, while Waaia belted Blighty 24.14 (158) to 13.8 (86).

Tungamah retained the Boosey Cup, 30.17 (197) to 9.4 (58) with Peter Macheda (seven goals) and Rob Wren (six) the best of the forwards.

Shepparton East was too powerful for Strathmerton, 29.16 (190) to 6.9 (45), while Dookie United beat Katunga 15.12 (102) to 13.15 (93).