In a contest that never truly opened up, the home side held its nerve to claim a 10.14 (74) to 8.9 (57) victory.
In what was a see-sawing affair all day, Mansfield established a 10 point lead at the first break and was able to simply hold on to it.
The Eagles led by eight points at half-time, 11 points at three-quarter time and were able to extend their lead to 17 as the final siren blew.
The win was a timely response for Mansfield, which bounced back strongly following the previous week’s narrow loss to Kyabram, which now sits atop the ladder.
Mansfield’s win was built on a solid team effort, with Tom Dunstan, Brett Mahoney, William Hogan, Brayden Van Winden and Callum Brown named among the Eagles’ best.
For Shepparton, Bryce Stephenson, Ryan Ash, Oscar Lambourn, Lewis McShane and Connor Fleming were recognised for their contributions in what was a gallant showing from the visitor despite the final result.
Mansfield now faces another huge challenge this weekend, hosting Echuca at home, which will be looking to bounce back after its first defeat of the season.
For Shepparton, it’s a home game against Seymour, facing a Lions outfit that handed Tatura a 104-point thumping.
