A SECOND half surge from Beechworth’s senior footballers saw them propel to a much-needed 47-point win over Tallangatta ahead of a testing three weeks against finals contenders.

The Bushrangers were matched by the underdog Hoppers in the first half at Rowen Park as the teams entered the sheds with just five points in the game.

Despite the absence of star midfielder Elliot Powell, Tallangatta’s finals aspirations were on the line and it showed early.

But a different Beechworth side headed into the second half to storm away from Tallangatta and kick 9.1 to 2.0 in the third quarter before winning 18.8 (116) to 10.9 (69).

It was the usual suspects leading from the front with star defender Kayde Surrey putting on a masterful intercept marking display while Barton medalist Cam Fendyk commanded the midfield.

Spearheads Brad Fendyk and Lachie Armstrong finished with hauls of five goals each while Harry Taylor, Degan Dolny and Tristan Lenaz were also solid contributors for the visitors.

Beechworth maintained their one-game buffer in the top three with the win, but their position could be under threat in a challenging three weeks ahead.

First the ‘Bushies will host Thurgoona at Baarmutha Park on Saturday before taking on Chiltern and Kiewa Sandy Creek.

The Dogs have hit form after claiming the scalp of second placed Barnarwartha and are leading the chasing pack for the coveted top three position, currently occupied by Beechworth.

The two teams last met in round one this season, when Beechworth pinched the game late to the tune of seven points after trailing for most of the day.

Across the fence, Beechworth’s A grade side was given a harsh reality check after a strong run of form, going down to a strong Tallangatta side 57-21.

The Hoppers were hot from the start and put on a dominant display in the second quarter, winning the period 18-2 to hold a commanding 22-goal half time lead.

The Bushrangers will look to regroup against a similarly challenging Thurgoona outfit as they try and stay in touch in the finals race.