WAHGUNYAH went a long way towards sealing a spot in the finals by overpowering Rutherglen at Wahgunyah on Saturday.
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After dropping three of their last four matches, the Lions hit back hard with a 12-point win to open up a two-game break on sixth-placed Yackandandah.
Coach Brett Skinner said it was a vital victory.
“Even though we haven’t been getting over the line our form hasn’t been that bad,” Skinner said.
“It’s just been a few lapses here and there so it was really good to put together four quarters on Saturday.
“I’d say it was our most consistent performance of the year.
“It was a hard match and a really important win.”
Dylan Cook continued his fine season by tagging Rutherglen’s Sam Bowers out of the match and winning plenty of possessions himself.
Alex Wallis was creative across half-forward and Angus Lingham controlled play in defence.
Cody Milne bobbed up with three goals in a low-scoring match and Nick Brockley proved dangerous in only his second match since May 6.
“We are starting to get our full list together again which is pleasing,” Skinner said.
“Nick Brockley was sensational which is pleasing at the pointy end of the year.”
Rutherglen, who missed Thomas Quinn with a leg injury, were best served by Chris Oats, Cody Parker and Damien Wilson.
Mitta United recovered from a slow start to account for Yackandandah by 38 points.
With Jack Gilbee leading the way, the Blues hit their straps in the second term and kicked away to a comfortable victory.
Richard Turnbull, Craig Lieschke and Dan Stewart were also prominent.
Yackandandah’s Malach Owers battled gamely and Trent Castles bagged five goals playing a lone hand in attack.
The loss leaves the Roos battling to stay in touch with the top-five with a tough match ahead against ladder leader Thurgoona.
Tallangatta accounted for Barnawartha by 24 points.
Brent Hibberson and Tyson Smith won plenty of possessions for the victors, with Adam Healy and Harrison Forelli also standing firm.
Former Albury Thunder centre Mitch Seaton continued his strong season with another solid display.
Barnawartha lacked a key forward with midfielder Cameron McNeill the leading goalscorer with two majors.
Thurgoona spearhead Matt Fowler continued to charge towards his first century by kicking eight goals in the Bulldogs’ big win over Beechworth.
He has 81 majors for the home and away series – nine clear of Castles.
Daniel Kannenberg, Corben Rawlings and David Price also played well for the reigning premier.
Beechworth’s Brayden Carey rallied hard.
Chiltern dished out a 101-point hiding to Dederang-Mount Beauty with Chris Anderson and Jayden Vandermeer in fine form.
Kiewa-Sandy Creek defeated Wodonga Saints by 94 points.