Rochy defeated in scrap with Swans

The tone for the game was set early in a cagey first quarter.

Neither side was able to get much going throughout the period, as the sides kicked only one goal each for the term.

The Swans went into the break a point ahead after winning the behind count.

Shepp’s shooting became even more wayward in the second as the host added 2.6, but Rochester found itself out of sorts going into the half, managing only a behind for the period.

The Swans entered the main break three goals ahead, 3.9 (27) to 2.3 (9).

In a low-scoring encounter, any run of points can have a big impact, and that’s what eventuated at the start of the second half.

Rochester came out of the sheds refocused and found its shooting form, kicking four of the first five goals of the period to come within a point, before the Swans were able to regroup with the last major of the period.

Having just kicked 4.0 in the third, the Tigers’ accuracy left them again down the stretch.

Indeed, both sides continued to struggle in front of goal, both kicking 1.4 in the final quarter.

Rochester kicked the opening goal of the last and came within two points on several occasions as the teams traded behinds, but eventually the Swans were able to cap the game with a goal of their own, taking the match, 6.16 (52) to 6.7 (43).

Hugh Hamilton and Andy Henderson both kicked two goals for the Tigers, while six different players were responsible for the Swans’ six majors.

Rochy was without Mitch Cricelli and James McPhee for the contest, who both would have provided additional attacking impetus to the side.

Despite its first defeat of the campaign, Rochy retains fifth place on the GVL ladder, level on points with Shepparton Bears, who also lost their undefeated streak in round five.

Three sides, Echuca, Kyabram and the Swans, remain unbeaten.

The Tigers are off to Benalla this Saturday, where they will look to rebound against the 1-4 Saints.