The Saints were missing five Melbourne-based players, including two of the league's best in Matt Dussin and Matt Munro, due to COVID restrictions and the Tigers pounced at home with a 20.20 (140) to 8.8 (56) demolition.

Billed as a grand final contender, Myrtleford has now slipped to fifth and will be desperately hoping protocols ease this week, allowing Melbourne players to resume.

Albury was missing Daniel Cross and Dean Heta for the same reason.

It was the Tigers' first game in five weeks.

"We're happy to get through unscathed after the long layoff and have a win," co-coach Luke Daly said.

Teenager Cameron McLeod debuted with three goals, while Jacob Conlan also bagged three.

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Jake Gaynor, Michael Duncan and Brayden O'Hara were tremendous, while Lachie Dale and Brody Ricardi were the Saints' pick.

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