A piece of Brendan Allen brilliance helped Euroa hang on by 10 points in a Goulburn Valley League thriller on Saturday.
Euroa, with its back against the wall, survived a monumental fightback from Benalla in the round five contest.
The 12.7 (79) to 10.9 (69) triumph delivered the Magpies their first win against Benalla at Memorial Oval since 2015.
The match which was an instant classic was capped by the work of Allen in front of goals.
With his side up by four points and with Benalla looking to clinch a remarkable win after trailing by six goals, Allen stepped up to the plate and slotted a difficult set shot which handed his side victory.
Euroa coach Scott Rowan was over the moon with how his group was able to dig deep and stave off the Saints.
“They are a very good side and we knew that we were in for a massive challenge and that they would put up a fight,” Rowan said.
“"We were up against it with two injuries, but it was so pleasing to see how the boys lifted in that last term.
“And I wasn't aware of that (the last time Euroa beat Benalla at home), but I knew we have had a few close ones. It's nice to finally be on the right sides of things.”
Rowan highlighted the strong bond that had formed between the playing group for his side's ability to find another level late in the match.
“There have been a few questions asked about the group and whether the new boys would buy in and I think they have answered those questions,” he said.
“They have been absolutely fantastic, they have really bought in. You can tell it means something to them.
“The way they have gone about it, it feels like they have been at the club for years and not just the past 18 months.
“There's a really good atmosphere around the place at the moment.”
Euroa recruit Riley Aldous provided ferocious intensity around the contest and was praised by Rowan for his one percenters.
Young gun Tom Panuccio was classy on the wing and booted a goal, while Tristan Davies added three more majors to his season tally.
But the win did come at a cost.
Gun talent Jett Trotter was unable to finish the game with a knee complaint, while Erish Uthayakumar came off with a groin injury.
However, in good news for Magpies supporters and both players, Rowan suspects the duo to only miss a couple of weeks.
“Jett came off with a knee injury, but he's got the all clear that it's nothing serious,” Rowan said.
“Although Jett probably felt like he could run out the game, it was the right move to keep him off in the end.
“And Erish hurt his groin, but it's not major and both should be right to go after the bye.”
Benalla did not lose any admirers in the loss.
Jordan Wolff tried his hardest and finished with two goals, while midfielders Zac Pallpratt and David Mennen contributed strongly for four quarters.
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