Barnawartha roar back into form with impressive win over Tallangatta

Buoyed by the return of ruckman Adam Elias who missed last weekend's clash, the home side broke the contest open in the third term booting 4.10 to 1.3.

The Tigers dominated the premiership quarter and could have put the match beyond doubt except for some wayward kicking including six consecutive behinds early in the term.

Tallangatta tried valiantly to claw its way back into the match and got within nine points in the last quarter but the Tigers had all the answers running out 13.14 (92) to 11.11 (77) winners.

Tigers co-coach Danny De Marte was delighted how his charges responded to last week's upset loss.

"We needed to work a lot harder than last week because we were disappointing against Yackandandah," De Marte said.

"We felt like we are a lot better than that and last week probably raised a few question marks about our flag credentials.

"But to respond like we did and show a lot of spirit and have that desire to get better was what impressed me the most.

"We see ourselves as a genuine flag threat and these are the sorts of matches we have to win if we are going to be contenders.

"It was a big win in context of where we were last week and we will take a lot of confidence out of it going forward."

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After starting the season with three straight wins, Tallangatta looked lethargic in contrast to the Tigers who were a lot more aggressive and relentless at the contest.

With key forward Kaine Parsons missing, the Hoppers lacked a focal point with marking targets Sam Maher, Ethan Riddington and Jack Russell well-held by their direct opponents.

Ben Hollands showed flashes of his brilliance including a clever snap for a goal in the opening term.

But the Tigers would have been delighted with the efforts of the unheralded Dylan Braut who did an admirable job curtailing the dangerous Hollands.

Co-coach Tom Anson, Connor Wiffen and Jordan Hansted won the midfield battle with their ability to break the lines and hit targets instrumental in the victory.

Benalla recruits Mitch Exton and Ben Kunkel also impressed.

Exton was damaging in the midfield and capped a polished display with four goals.

The Hoppers lacked discipline at times after giving away several 50m penalties.

Adam Fraser also received a yellow card for a late hit which sparked a melee.

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