HORSHAM Saints took their winning tally into double figures on Saturday after a 38-point victory over Stawell at Central Park, Stawell.

The Warriors made the Saints work hard for the second time this season.

Just 10 points separated the sides at half-time before an eight-goal-to-one third term turned the match clearly in the Saints’ favour.

But the Warriors won the final term, holding the finals-bound visitors goal-less, to take out the match 15.13 (103) to 9.11 (65).

Saints Mat Combe and Gavin Kelm kicked three goals each, while Brenton Potter kicked two-thirds of the Warriors’ goals, finishing with six.

Stawell coach Brad Cassidy said there were positive signs again for his side.

“It was certainly an even sort of contest,” he said.

“Both sides had enough of the footy and our effort and intent again was up around what we had against Horsham in that first half last round.

“Our third quarter let us down a bit again, but to win the last quarter on the scoreboard was pleasing.”

For the Saints, Thomas Pain was named best on ground, while Daniel Rees, Combe and Dennis Adams all contributed.

The Warriors were well served by Potter, defender Todd Matthews and skipper Tom Eckel.

Cassidy said Matthews’ work on Saints spearhead Kelm was fantastic.

“That was the best game I’ve seen Todd play at Wimmera league level,” he said.

“He’s certainly put the work in and that shows what he can achieve if he keeps persevering and keeps that work rate up.”

Cassidy said the Warriors would keep improving ahead of games against Minyip-Murtoa and Ararat to finish the season. 

“I know we’ve had a couple of heavy defeats in the second half of the season but I generally think there has been improvement there,” he said.

“It’s a work in progress with these young players.

“They’ve just got to continue learning – and they’re doing that.”

The Saints can seal a top-three finish in Shayne Breuer’s first year at the helm with a win in either of their final two games against Dimboola and Horsham.

But two losses could open the door for Minyip-Murtoa to sneak into the top three if they can win their last two games.