GVL Data | Hamilton, Watson help Tigers topple Bulldogs

Tatura remained in the contest from then on, hitting the scoreboard as the sides traded majors for a 3.7 (25) to 1.1 (7) half-time score.

The third term saw the Bulldogs attempt to claw back the deficit, making the Tigers pay for inaccurate goal-kicking and winning the term 2.2 (14) to 1.5 (11).

However, Rochester held its nerve in the final period, kicking three goals to two to seal the victory, 7.16 (58) to 5.5 (35).

James McPhee kicked three goals for the Tigers, while Wil Hamilton added two and Mitch Cricelli and Dillion Williams each contributed one major.

Hamilton was named best-on-ground for Rochester on the back of some useful contributions.

Along with his two goals, the starting full-forward accumulated 15 disposals, nine contested possessions and six team involvements.

Hamilton contributed on the attack, logging two inside 50s and three marks inside 50, and the defence, taking two intercept marks.

Another of Rochester’s best was ruck Lachlan Watson, who led his side in ranking points (137) and hit outs (20, nine to advantage), while also leading both teams with four intercept marks.

Watson made contributions in all areas, racking up 18 disposals, 10 contested possessions, three inside 50s, six clearances, six tackles and five score involvements.

Rochester improved to 2-2, having arrested a two-game slide with this win, and currently sits sixth on the ladder after four rounds.

A local rivalry is set to be renewed as the Tigers will enter next Saturday as heavy underdogs against rampant reigning champion Echuca at Victoria Park.

The Murray Bombers continued their unbeaten start to 2024 when they defeated Euroa by 45 points at the weekend.