Tallangatta gained further momentum in the countdown to finals after a comprehensive 14-goal win against fifth-placed Chiltern at Tallangatta on Saturday.
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The Swans matched their more fancied opponents for most of the contest before the Hoppers found another gear in the final term to eventually win 52-38.
The Hoppers remain in contention for the minor premiership with only percentage separating ladder leaders Kiewa-Sandy Creek and Tallangatta.
Coach Erika O'Connell said the Hoppers took until the final term to shrug off the challenge of the Swans.
"Although we were in control for most of the match I thought we were a bit flat for the first three-quarters," O'Connell said.
"The last-quarter we clicked into gear and were finally able to put a bit of a margin on the opposition.
"It was a relief to be able to bank another four points with the competition so tight at the top."
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Midcourt dynamo Anna Avery was best-on-court for the home side.
Avery was well supported by wing defence Laura Collins and goal shooter Hannah Dwyer.
O'Connell admitted it wasn't the Hoppers' most polished performance this season.
"It wasn't pretty but I was just happy to get the points on such a cold and miserable sort of day," she said.
"One of the biggest positives was Lily McKimmie played her second A-grade match of the season.
"Lily played a half as goal attack and is showing some promising signs after only turning 14 last month."
