CHILTERN has firmed dramatically in Tallangatta league premiership calculations after claiming the prized scalp of of defending premier Kiewa-Sandy Creek at Chiltern on Saturday.
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Trailing by 22-points at the final change, the Swans produced a stunning last-quarter surge to secure a stirring eight point victory.
It was the Swans' biggest victory since defeating Thurgoona in the 2015 first semi-final.
They slammed on six goals to one in the final term to eventually win 13.8 (86) to 11.12 (78).
Co-coach Luke Brookes said the come-from-behind victory would do wonders for their self-belief.
"That's two weeks in a row we have come from five goals down and there is a bit of belief in the group now to come from a position like that," Brookes said.
"Especially against a quality side like Kiewa.
"It's amazing to be able to beat the defending premier considering we only won four matches last year.
"We are 6-2 now and second on the ladder and there is some real belief amongst the group at the moment.
"We believe in ourselves and a lot of the other clubs probably rate us as surprise packets but we set ourselves for finals at the start of the year and are well on track to achieving that."
After an even opening term, the Hawks looked to be cruising to victory as they booted five goals to none to open up a 28-point lead at the main break.
Jason Bartel and Cameron Evans racked-up plenty of touches for the Hawks.
While Michael Thompson was having an enthralling battle with Chiltern co-coach Rick Whitehead.
The third term was goal for goal with the visitors still 22-points up at the last change.
But two goals by Danyl Woods and another to Whitehead at the start of the last term slashed the margin to four points.
Big Hawk Guy Telford let Chiltern off the hook when he missed two shots he would normally convert.
It proved costly as Chris Anderson, Murray Price and Luke Bokic all kicked late goals to seal the eight point victory.
Bokic kicked the match-winner after laying a team lifting tackle.
Chiltern now face Barnawartha in a mouth-watering clash of second versus third.
"We look forward to the challenge," Brookes said.
"I know Peter Cook said in the paper at the start of the season he thinks everyone is still four to five goals behind last years top-three.
"He might have to reassess those comments."
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