But that was the fortunate position Tallangatta found itself in over the pre-season last year after Scott Spencer started visiting local farmers through his employment in the dairy industry.

Spencer had spent the previous two seasons at Cobram.

"I do a lot of work on the dairy farms in the area," Spencer said.

One of the first farms I went to, put me in contact with Tallangatta.

"Originally I was just looking for a club to train with and was going to travel back to Cobram to play on weekends.

"But with work commitments it was just easier to play for Tallangatta so I ended up sticking around.

"This is only my fourth season of Aussie rules because previously I played soccer.

"I'm loving the switch."

IN OTHER NEWS

Spencer has emerged as one of the premier ruckman in the competition and rarely rests up forward.

His arrival has coincided with the Hoppers' return as a finals force.

They finished fourth last season and once again look set to play finals barring any major upsets in the countdown to finals.

The Hoppers sit fifth with a 8-5-1 record.

The biggest question mark over the Hoppers' finals credentials is their 1-5 record against sides inside the top-five.

Spencer said the challenge now was to take the next step and start claiming some big scalps.

"We beat Barnawartha in the season opener and they're obviously third on the ladder," he said.

"Chiltern kicked a goal after the siren to beat us and they're second.

"When we played Barnawartha the second time we were in front with five minutes to go and let the match slip.

"So we feel we aren't too far away and more than capable of matching the better sides."

Spencer said the continued improvement of the Hoppers' youngsters would have a huge bearing on how far they progress in September.

"On paper we may not have as many big names as last year," he said.

"But I think we are playing a better brand of football with a lot more structures in place.

"Jake Maddock, Bailey McKimmie and Hamish O'Brien have all cemented their spots after emerging through the junior ranks."

Spencer returned last week from holidays after missing two rounds.

Tallangatta face raging flag favourite Thurgoona on Saturday.

The Hoppers were trounced by 86-points in round four.

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