Neither side was able to grasp control the game, with the lead shifting between the teams multiple times.

The Rovers held a slender five-point lead at the first break before the Eagles kicked away to a 15-point lead by half-time.

The tussle continued in the second half, with the sides going into the final term with scores level.

Ararat coach Scott Jackson said his message at the final break was about how much a win would mean.

“I put it on them to remember how much it would mean for them to get the win,” he said.

The Eagles booted four final quarter goals to come out on top, recording a 10.9 (69) to 12.8 (80) victory.

Jackson said it was a great thing for his club to record a win in a tight match.

“It is extremely good for our team and great for the club,” he said.

“We don’t win too often so to take the four points against a strong opposition means a lot.

“Both teams put up a good fight and never gave up.

“Everyone played the roles they were instructed to play which was crucial to getting the win.” Tom and Jackson Taurau – on clearance from Stawell – led the way for their former club.

Tom was especially influential, booting three majors.

“It is always great anytime we can get the boys playing for us,” Jackson said.

“The club is a big part for them and we could see how much it meant for them too.”

The Eagles had 20 shots at goal on Saturday, a situation the club has rarely found itself in previous seasons.

Jackson said he was pleased with how his players converted in front of goal.

“Scoring opportunities have been few far between in previous years so to have that many shots was great,” he said.

“We had 16 shots at goal last weekend but only kicked four goals which was disappointing. We worked hard on our kicking this week which paid off.”

The result from the game sees both Ararat and SMW Rovers move to one win and one loss each after the second round. 

The Eagles will carry their winning form into a big ANZAC round clash against ladder leaders Great Western.