The Bears trailed at the half, but clawed back the lead at three-quarter-time, before they piled on five goals to one in the last to record a 10.17 (77) to 7.5 (47) victory.

Tyson McKenzie led the way with four majors, Xavier Stevenson nabbed two, while Nick Irvine, Chris Powell, Thomas Irvine and Matt O'Kane also impressed.

Matt Ross, Grant Martin and Ronald Middleton were Berrigan's best.

Rennie's winless start continued with a nail-biting 14.6 (90) to 15.9 (99) loss to Yarroweyah at home.

Tocumwal, 8.7 (55), upset Katamatiite, 7.8 (50), to post its second win.

ALSO IN SPORT:

Strathmerton is top of the ladder after a 275-point thrashing of Blighty.

Former Myrtleford coach Tim Looby booted 11 goals, while Yarrawonga premiership player Marcus McMillan nabbed 10, as did Zack Betson.

Jerilderie stayed in touch with the leaders thanks to a 13.12 (90) to 10.8 (68) defeat of Katunga.

Waaia continued its impressive start with a 65-point salute over Mathoura, while Picola United was too good for Deniliquin Rovers.

The ladder after nine rounds is: Strathmerton 28, Waaia 28, Tungamah 24, Berrigan 24, Katamatite 24, Katunga 24, Jerilderie 24, Katandra 20, Yarroweyah 16, Mathoura 16, Picola United 12, Tocumwal 8, Deniliquin Rovers 4, Rennie 0, Blighty 0.

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