The reigning premier smashed the Goulburn Valley league heavyweight in the first half, with Chris Hyde prolific in the midfield and Setanta O’hAilpin posing nightmares in attack.

But Benalla coach Luke Morgan said it was Albury’s defensive pressure that impressed him most.

“Albury is a very, very good side,” Morgan said.

“They obviously have top-end talent, but they have good depth as well and the defensive pressure they apply is probably the thing that stood out most to me.

“We had enough of the footy but their ability to turn forward entries over was very impressive.

“They work hard as a unit and will take a lot of beating.”

Albury set up the win early with Hyde, Setanta and Aisake O’hAilpin, Joel Mackie, Elliott Powell and Brayden O’Hara playing well.

Tiger recruit Angus Graham and Benalla big man Josh Marchbank shared the honours in the ruck.

The Saints, who went into the clash without James Martiniello, Jake Pallpratt, Al Jacka, Lachie Smith and Josh Mellington, were best served by Ryan Colbert and James Martyn.