The Tigers were never headed across the afternoon, starting a little sluggish in the opening quarter before putting the foot down in the second term to open a match-winning buffer.
Their 13.7 (85) to 9.8 (62) victory keeps them firmly in the contender conversation, and a top-two finish now sits firmly in their control.
Rochester led by less than a goal at quarter time before piling on six goals to two in the second term.
They faced a real scare from the visiting side, who came out of the main break with some real intent.
The Saints clawed the margin back to just two goals at the final change to keep the contest alive with a four goals to one third term.
But Rochester, with a solid body of work behind it, steadied in the last to put the game beyond doubt.
Hugh Hamilton was the star in attack with six goals in a best-on-ground display, supported by Wil Hamilton’s three majors and Hamish Heine’s two.
Victoria Country representative Harry Moon also featured for Rochester’s seniors for the first time this season.
For Benalla, Nathan Wright played a lone hand in front of goal, booting six of his side’s nine majors to keep the visitors in touch.
The result continues Rochester’s surge up the ladder, adding to wins over Echuca, Mooroopna, Euroa and Shepparton Swans since round 12.
The Tigers’ only blemish in that time was a draw against Mansfield, a side also pushing for the ultimate glory.
With the Tigers now a game clear in second, they has their destiny in their own hands heading into the final game of the season.
They’re set to face the winless Tatura to finish their home and away tilt, with a percentage boost likely on the cards.
Benalla, meanwhile, sits outside the finals picture but showed fight following last week’s big win over Tatura.
11°C