In a see-sawing contest, Boort triumphed by just five points 15-9 (99) to 14-10 (94) after the Saints had led by more than five goals in the opening term.

Andrew Welsh kicked four goals for the Magpies, while Rick Easton and Andrew White chipped in with three apiece.

Defender Aaron Wilson and Shannon Millward were named the host’s best.

Nick Coghlan and Daniel Needs slotted three for the Saints, with Coghlan named among the best along with Nick Baldwin and Jacob Patching.

The result sees the Magpies leapfrog the Saints into third spot on the ladder.

The Navy Blues accounted for Donald by 99 points at Charlton Park.

Daniel Thiesz kicked five goals for Charlton in a best on ground performance, while Joseph McGrath, four goals, and Ben Walklate impressed.

Daniel Pearce was named the Royal Blues’ best in the 3.8 (26) to 18.17 (125) loss.

Despite the margin, Royal Blues coach Paul Brooks said he was pleased with his players’ efforts.

“We were beaten easily on the scoreboard but I was quite happy – apart from our second quarter,” he said.

“They had a few out, but they’re a good side when you allow them to run, and we tightened up in the second half.”

Glenn Wyatt got through his first game back from injury unscathed.

At George Cartwright Oval, Wedderburn fought off a determined Birchip-Watchem outfit.

Sam Barnes kicked seven goals as the Redbacks – who led by no more than three goals at any of the first three changes – finished strongly to triumph 15.9 (99) to 7.10 (52).

Mark Lloyd was named the visitors’ best, while Tom Carland impressed for the Bulls.