The Saints, who were hot favourites going into the match, took the opportunity to experiment in the second half, moving players into unfamiliar positions.

Edenhope-Apsley coach Grant Coxon said despite the team dropping off in the third quarter, he was pleased with its overall performance.

"We had some brilliant passages of play, which showed the way we want to be performing at this time of year," he said.

But it was an improved performance from the Tigers, whose commitment and attitude was questioned by coach Mal Coutts in the lead-up to the game.

He said he was pleased with the improved showing from his side.

"Our preparation, attitude and commitment was very good for three quarters," he said.

Tim Adams was good up forward for the Saints and his game-high four goals all came in the second half.

He was one of 10 goal-kickers for Edenhope-Apsley, which was boosted by Thomas Clissold and Taylor Milner, who both kicked three goals each.

"That's something we were really good at earlier in the season at times we had anywhere between 10 and 15 goal-kickers in a game," Coxon said.

He said Will Middleton was one of the best afield for the Saints, controlling the ball through the midfield.

"He did a lot of hard running. He'd kick the ball and push up and receive a handball," he said.

"His second and third efforts were brilliant."

Brent Christie also impressed for the Saints, finding plenty of the football.

Dave McLeish was a late withdrawal for Edenhope-Apsley after battling illness during the week.

Coutts said the improved performance boded well for Pimpinio's future prospects.

"We're running out with no one between the age of 22 and 29," he said,

"If you put six years on our best six juniors and make them all 26, 27 or 28 having played an extra five seasons, it's a different outlook."

Coutts said he was pleased for the players after they had a 'real crack' for the first three quarters.

Pimpinio came close to winning the third quarter, scoring 2.2 to the Saints' 3.3.