Shepparton has strengthened its Goulburn Valley League under-18 finals credentials with a strong win over Benalla at the weekend.
Both sides were inaccurate at Deakin Reserve as they battled slippery and overcast conditions, but it was Shepparton that held on for a 10.17 (77) to 1.7 (13) triumph.
The round nine win moves Shepparton into fourth spot on the ladder ahead of its bye week against Tatura.
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Send it forward: Shepparton's Lachlan Howard. Photo by Megan FisherImage 2 of 9
On the move: Shepparton's Matt Whitlock. Photo by Megan FisherImage 3 of 9
Eyes up: Shepparton's Zac Metcalf and Benalla's Flynn Weeks. Photo by Megan FisherImage 4 of 9
Turn and go: Benalla's Sam Begley. Photo by Megan FisherImage 5 of 9
Ruck duel: Shepparton's Jensen Dowling Benalla's Miller Gilcrist. Photo by Megan FisherImage 6 of 9
In the zone: Shepparton's Daniel Meek. Photo by Megan FisherImage 7 of 9
Endeavouring smother: Benalla's James Cooke jumps to smother the set-shot kick. Photo by Megan FisherImage 8 of 9
Fire it away: Shepparton's Mitch Fleming gets a kick away with Benalla's Shaalv Deo on the mark. Photo by Megan FisherImage 9 of 9
Under pressure: Benalla's Miller Gilcrist and Shepparton's Noah Vivona. Photo by Megan FisherMitch Fleming was a standout for the host and booted two goals, while ruckman Zac Metcalf (one) was influential across the ground.
Ash Young, Tarkyn Huffer and Zaydan Leocata rounded out the better players for the Bears.
Meanwhile, sixth-placed Mooroopna almost pulled off an upset win over unbeaten Echuca.
The Cats suffered a narrow and heartbreaking 5.10 (40) to 5.9 (39) defeat at Victoria Park.
News photographer Megan Fisher attended the Bears’ 64-point beating of Benalla and captured all the thrills and spills.