BARNAWARTHA’S run of tight finishes continued, with the Tigers edging Mitta United by five points in their Tallangatta and District league clash at Barnawartha on Saturday.
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While the result meant little in regards to the final ladder, the reigning premier was hungry to win after losing to Kiewa-Sandy Creek and Chiltern by a point in the past month.
They beat Dederang-Mount Beauty by 14 points in between those defeats.
“It was a cracking game that could have gone either way,” Tigers coach Mark Sarau said.
“It was nice to come out on the right side.
“I thought Mitta probably beat us around the ball but we hung in there and held our nerve pretty well.”
Only two goals separated the teams for most of the clash with Mitta United being well served by Nathan Reynoldson, Tyson and Jarrod Gorupic and Darcy Eaton.
Alex Beggs continued his strong form, despite having missed the bulk of the season through injury, kicking four goals.
The Blues weren’t helped by the late withdrawal of Paul Giltrap, which meant James Gray had to spend time in the ruck.
Barnawartha had solid performers in Nathan McKendrick, Ryan Lempa, Mitch Exton and Tom Anson.
Chiltern strengthened its hold on fifth spot by thumping Tallangatta by 97 points.
Mark Doolan was in ominous form with seven goals in a best afield performance while Caleb Boxall and Dane O’Neill also continued their strong seasons.
Duncan McMaster was best for the Hoppers.
Thurgoona dismantled Rutherglen by 69 points, with Kane Godde best on ground.