In a far from ideal preparation for clashes against fellow premiership contenders Gundagai and Southcity, the reigning premier did as it pleased, with captain Lou Goodwin and centre Mitch Seaton unstoppable.

Only the conditions at Greenfield Park saved Tumut from an even bigger loss, with the wind playing havoc with Ben Jeffery’s goalkicking.

Thunder coach Josh Cale said it was a solid performance against the winless Blues.

“The boys played well, but Tumut is down on troops,” Cale said.

“It was a good effort and the main thing is that we got through virtually injury free.

“We have a big couple of weeks ahead and I think we are in pretty good shape.”

The only injury concern is winger Lachie Hampton.

The promising youngster went down late in the first half after suffering a knee to his kidneys and could be in doubt to play Gundagai next weekend.

Goodwin led the onslaught with three tries while Seaton played his best match of the season.

Fullback Willie Heta was heavy involved from the outset, Elijah Tipene underlined his improvement with two tries and Jake Grace got through a power of work.

Cale said defence was the focus against Tumut.

“I thought holding them scoreless showed good intent,” Cale said.

“It’s always nice to come away with a zero.”

Southcity’s come-from-behind 29-20 win over Gundagai means Albury has work to do to claim the minor premiership.

The Bulls, who trailed 20-12 at half-time, broke the shackles in the final 10 minutes through their exciting backline with coach Daniel Fitzhenry praising his team’s never-say-die attitude.

Tumbarumba dealt Cootamundra’s finals aspirations a huge blow when it won 25-0, Kangaroos defeated Temora 44-22 and Young stormed home to edge out Brothers 26-22.

Junee had the bye.