With the Goulburn Valley League as even as ever, Mooroopna coach John Lamont understands how important Saturday night's win over Shepparton Swans was for his side.
The Cats skipped away to record a classy 15.16 (106) to 9.13 (67) win over the Swans at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve.
Although they walked away with the round five victory, the Cats were unable to secure the annual Blue Ribbon Foundation Shield.
For the 19th year in a row, the shield — which honours the memory of Victorian police who have died in the line of duty — will remain in the hands of the Swans.
However, claiming the four points, which now catapult the Cats into seventh spot on the ladder, left Lamont a happy man.
“It was a really pleasing performance. It was a win that both sides needed to remain with the pack,” Lamont said.
“The game was a real arm wrestle. Both sides had glimpses of getting on top of the game in that first half, but the pressure got to either side.
“I felt we made the simple a bit difficult going forward, but the boys were able to change it around in the third term which really helped set up the win.
“Overall, we were really pleased to win at home and in front of our supporters.”
Lachlan McMahon and Isaiah Jones battled hard across the four quarters, while captain Quade Johnstone was the only multiple goal-scorer for the Swans.
Mooroopna was spearheaded by best afield performer Chris Nield.
The classy forward booted five majors and helped set up countless others, while recruit Matt Gorman (one) was prolific in the engine room.
Young gun Kydan Atkinson made his senior debut for the Cats and showed plenty of promise on the wing.
But the win for Mooroopna was soured by the injury to Ryan Devine, who was unable to finish off the game with a severely rolled ankle.
Lamont gave credit to his leading duo for its effort in the win.
“Chris was really positive up forward for us. He presented hard and gave us a good target,” he said.
“Matty had a slow start, but he really worked his way into the game through his effort around the contest. He is a new player at the club and it's going to take him some time to adjust, but I was really impressed with his game on Saturday.
“Kydan acquitted himself well to senior football and it was great to see him get his chance.
“And unfortunately Ryan looks like he will miss next week after he injured his ankle. He rolled it after landing on a player's foot and so he'll need scans.”
With an eye to next week, the Cats travel to Rochester, while the Swans face a talented Euroa.
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