Lachie Hamilton led the home team to the 20.11 (131) to 9.5 (59) win with seven goals.

The Rats got off to a fast-scoring start, slotting six majors in the opening term with the Tigers only able to register the one goal.

The game continued in much the same way in the second quarter, as Ararat went into half time with a 45-point advantage.

The Rats returned to the ground with no rotations for the second half but continued to dominate the game to finish comfortable winners at home.

Ararat coach Shane Fisher said it was a strong performance considering the circumstances.

“We responded well, got a bit of a buffer early on but Nhill put up some fight particularly in the third

“We had three guys off the ground after which hurt us, we are fairly big on rotations and it forced us to change a few things.

“Even in the second half, we tried some guys in different spots with an eye towards later in the year and what may happen.”

Fisher said it was also positive signs for players with the work of the forwards on the scoreboard.

“Lachie Hamilton has worked hard off the preseason work he has put in and is getting a lot of footy in his hands,” he said.

Ararat now goes into the bye with a 6-2 record, sitting in second position. The Rats travel to Central Park to face Stawell in round 10.