Tigers were able to match it with the Demons for large periods of the contest but never seriously challenged as they fell, 10.11 (71) to 6.10 (46).

The loss brings to an end Tigers’ premiership defence, as they were replaced in fifth spot by Coolamon, who comfortably accounted for Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong.

For the Demons, it was an important win to seal the minor premiership and it was also an improved performance from the last couple of times they have been challenged.

Collingullie-GP captain-coach Luke Gestier was pleased to see the Demons get back to somewhere near their best.

“It was a really good win,” Gestier said.

“It was a high pressure match, really low scoring, very error-ridden I thought, skills wise, but that’s just the pressure around the footy.

“I thought we had somewhat plateaued a little bit but today was a good turning point heading forward.”

Collingullie-GP laid the platform early, kicking the only three goals of the first quarter.

The Demons got out to a 23-point early in the second term before Wagga Tigers captain-coach Shaun Campbell led his team back into the contest.

He kicked one goal, and had a hand in two others, as Tigers drew within four points. A goal to Marc Geppert from a free kick, then 50 metre penalty, just moments before half-time halted Tigers’ momentum and gave the Demons a 10-point half-time advantage.

The third quarter was a seesawing and at times scrappy contest. But most importantly, Collingullie-GP kicked the only two goals of the quarter to stretch their advantage to 26 points.

With everything on the line, Tigers challenged. They drew within 13 points, and it could have been even closer had they taken all their chances.

Collingullie eventually steadied and replied with the next two goals to seal the all-important victory.

Gestier was pleased to finish in top spot.

“It’s good. It’s just a reward for the group,” he said.

“Although it wasn’t really the number one priority for today, it’s now fantastic to have it sewn up and now we can set up for big month ahead.”

Gestier asked to be alone with the playing group for a moment in the sheds after the game, without supporters, as he spoke to them about the month ahead.

“I just wanted to tell the group how proud of them I was, of the first step,” he said.

“There’s two more steps to go and that’s getting into a grand final and winning one, so we’ll keep working at it.”