A shock Benalla triumph and a nail-biting two-point win for Mooroopna headlined Sunday afternoon’s Goulburn Valley League action.
Benalla notched back-to-back wins for the first time this campaign with a thrilling six-point victory over Shepparton.
The Saints prevailed in a low-scoring contest against the inaccurate Bears and posted a 7.10 (52) to 5.16 (46) win at Benalla Showgrounds.
Meanwhile at Princess Park, Mooroopna has claimed the Blue Ribbon Foundation Shield for the first time since it began.
Shepparton Swans put up a gallant fight against the Cats, but it was the visitors who took out the 20th edition of the Blue Ribbon Foundation Shield.
The Swans, who led at the first break, got within two points of Mooroopna halfway through the final term of the round nine affair.
A loss would have thrown a spanner in Mooroopna’s run home to finals action, however, John Lamont’s charges dug deep to salute 14.5 (89) to 10.11 (71).
The final tally for the Blue Ribbon Shield was 5-4 in favour of the Cats.
Young Mooroopna defender Ben Woods was judged best-on and received the Blue Ribbon Medal.
On the netball courts, Mooroopna prevailed against its inexperienced counterparts 53-39.
The Cats, who were challenged in the second and third quarters, pulled away to post a comfortable 14-goal victory.
Dayna Williams was on song in goals for Mooroopna, while Shelby Britten and Maddison Wong were valuable contributors.
Williams was awarded the best player of the match medal.
Shinea Sali and Klarindah Hudson battled hard for the Swans.
Lastly, the Benalla and Shepparton A-grade score was not provided.