Pies forage for victory at Deni

Both sides were desperate for a win and the Rams would start the better by booting the first three goals of the match in 11 minutes, as Moama only offered two behinds for the entire quarter to trail by 18 at the first change.

But the Magpies, with their confidence already punctured by recent form, dug deep in the second term, producing their own three-goal streak — also in 11 minutes — to tie the game.

Moama went on to add another goal later on in the quarter, as Deni only mustered one major to trail by a point at half-time, 4.2 (26) to 4.3 (27).

The low-scoring arm wrestle continued in the second half, with the lead changing three times in the third quarter, as the Rams twice retook the lead with two goals either side of one Moama major, the hosts back in front by four points heading into the final term.

The Magpies had more scoring shots than Deni through three quarters, but were not executing with accuracy, which was a trend that opened the fourth quarter as Moama kicked four straight behinds to level the score.

The nature of the contest meant one strong push would be enough for either side to claim victory.

Moama found the extra gear required with two goals within 90 seconds that opened up a double-digit lead, one it would see the game out with, triumphing 8.11 (59) to 7.6 (48).

Moama was unable to move up the ladder despite the victory, still sitting ninth, but it is now only two wins away from the finals spots.

Consecutive wins should also be achievable this weekend, with the Magpies welcoming winless, bottom-placed Rumbalara to Moama Recreation Reserve.