The fourth-placed Hoppers brushed side some inconsistent form to surprise the ladder leader with all-rounder Greg Daniel proving the match-winner with five wickets.

The win was even more impressive considering Lavington was at full strength with pacemen Daryl Tuffey and Brett Davies in the side.

“It was a really good win,” Borella said.

“We have probably lost a few crucial games but to get the win against Lavington going into the Christmas break will hopefully give us some momentum for next year.”

North Albury, who won the toss and batted, made 8-188 with Brendan Simmons (61) and Daniel (39) keeping the scoreboard ticking over.

The home team struck in the second over of the chase when Ash Hulme dismissed Sam O'Connor for a duck which triggered a steady flow of wickets.

Only a last-wicket stand of 58 between Will Heriot (21) and Michael Galvin (34 not out) masked the size of the loss.

“To start with we didn’t think we had enough runs as the wicket was good and the outfield quick but when you bat first and put runs on the board you are always a chance,” Borella said.

“We had to take a couple of early wickets and luckily we did. It put us on the way.”

Lavington coach Robbie Mackinlay said North Albury deserved the win.

“They were too good,” Mackinlay said.

“Both sides bowled and fielded well but Brendan Simmons and Greg Daniel put together a really good partnership for them.

“We were outplayed.”

It was Lavington’s first loss of the season.