Finley travelled to Cobram on Saturday in search of an away victory in the Murray Football League — and the Cats delivered.
Cobram led at the main break but, after an eight-goal-to-one second half, the Cats posted an emphatic 25-point victory.
The win saw Finley barge into the MFL’s top six for the first time this season.
Scores, Finley 12.7 (79) to Cobram 8.6 (54).
The first quarter saw both sides going at the ball with fierce intent.
The Sherrin spent a lot of time in Finley’s front half and this allowed the Cats to hold a slight advantage at the first change.
Finley’s Tim Robertson, Cameron Robertson, Chris Hawkins and Tom Doyle all had an impact on the contest.
The second term saw the Tigers edge away with five goals to Finley’s one.
Cobram’s Dean Norris was lively across half forward.
Finley’s endeavour was obvious, but some poor skill errors leading to turnovers cost the Cats in the second stanza.
Robb Jewell, Ned Morrison and Tim Davis continued their good form for Finley, but it was Cobram’s midfield and half backs — Tom Crapp, Kane Boyer, Paul Diretto and ruckman Adam Svarc — who were on top.
Finley continued to work hard in the third term and their pressure paid dividends.
The Cats’ attack on the ball, along with the tackling pressure, was a feature.
Finley worked back into the contest mainly through the efforts of their back line’s tireless work. The visitor’s half forwards and midfielders lifted, culminating in a 13 point lead heading into the final term.
The last quarter saw Finley’s efforts rewarded with a six-goal burst. The Cats starved Cobram of opportunity, much to the displeasure of the Tigers’ vocal home crowd.
Half forwards Jordan Daniel, Doug Maclean and Cameron Robertson all stood tall for the visitors, while Chris Hawkins, Rob Jewell, Tim Robertson, Tom Doyle, Ned Morrison and Tim Davis also contributed to the Cats’ victory.
Finley’s last quarter was a combination of hard work and desperation that wore down their opponent.
Finley is now a game clear in fifth position on the MFL table and hosts fourth-placed Congupna this Saturday in what should be a great game.
The reserves recorded their fifth win for the year to stay in touch with the top six.
Jeremy Congram, James Larter and Brenton Fleming all had a big impact on the outcome for the Cats.
Lachy Hawkins continued his good form in the ruck.
Scores, Finley 11.9 (75) to Cobram 5.6 (36).