Rochy bounces back with solid outing against Benalla

The contest remained tight into the second period with both sides trading blows, Rochy (2.5) only just outscored Benalla (2.1) for the period to snatch the lead by the slimmest of margins heading into half-time.

The Tigers created some distance following the major break, with the side nailing five majors and a couple of behinds while holding the Saints to just a pair of each to build a lead.

A Hugh Hamilton masterclass in front of goal led the way for Rochy to bring the win home in the final frame, with Hamilton’s three goals constituting the bulk of the side’s five goals down the stretch.

While Benalla managed to jag three of its own in reply, it wasn’t enough to make up for the hole it dug itself in the third quarter, with the Tigers escaping in cruise control.

The final score was Rochester 15.14 (104) to Benalla 11.4 (70).

Hugh Hamilton’s stellar day at forward pocket culminated not just in a six-goal bag, but also being awarded best-on-ground for the contest.

Andy Henderson, Mitchell Trewhella, Nate Rasmussen and Adam McPhee rounded out the best-on list for the Tigers.

As impressive as Hamilton’s bag was, it was outdone by Benalla’s Nathan Wright, who nailed eight majors in the contest, contributing the majority of his side’s goals.

Lachlan Joyce made his debut for Rochester in round six after making the step up from under-18s in 2024 to reserves in 2025, where he has played three games this season, being named best-on-ground once.

The victory leaves Rochy in fourth position heading to round seven behind undefeated Kyabram and Shepparton Swans, with only percentage separating the Tigers from third-placed Echuca.

It’s likely Rochy will continue its winning ways in round seven, as it will return home to Moon Oval to host bottom-of the ladder Tatura.