CHAMPS PULL THROUGH: The Benalla All-Blacks pushed them to the limit, but the Tigers escaped with the win by just a solitary point.
OVENS and King minnows Benalla All-Blacks almost pulled off the season's biggest upset on Saturday.
Unfortunately for the much improved upstarts their gallant effort wasn't to be, but they had the crowd at Friendlies Oval on the edges of their seats.
One measly behind separated the All-Blacks from a major upset against premiership contenders Glenrowan.
The final score of 10.9.69 to 10.8.68 was a heartbreaker for the Benalla side, but they could hold their heads high having pushed the reigning premiers to the limit.
Scores were level at half time after Benalla fought back from a seven-point quarter time deficit.
The arm-wrestle continued into the second half but Benalla was able to pull ahead in the third quarter, booting three goals to two for a five-point advantage at the last change.
Both teams had to dig deep in the final term, but it was the Tigers who found the final score needed to bank the four points.
Harry Moran booted a game-high four goals for Benalla, while Glenrowan star Karl Norman kicked three to finish among the best for the Tigers.
In other matches, 14 goals for Thomas Buckley helped Bright crunch North Wangaratta, while Goorambat and District were too good for Milawa.
Poor goalkicking didn't hinder Bonnie Doon in their win over Moyhu, Tarrawingee beat Whorouly by a handy 53-point margin and King Valley enjoyed a big win over Greta.
