Cobram endured another narrow loss when it ventured to Katunga on Saturday to take on the Numurkah Blues.
Without key players in Shaun Downie, Jason Kerr, Simon Rudd, Richard Cole and Joel Brayshaw, it was always going to be a real battle against the fellow finals contenders.
In wet and slippery conditions for most of the day, the Tigers were off to a good start but couldn't shake off a determined Numurkah side as the game turned into a slogging affair.
There was no doubting the commitment of the side, but once again another close game and four points left to lament.
Standouts for the day included Phil Bourke who had the important task on key forward Meyland, he along with James Murray led from the front in the defensive half.
Through the middle of the ground Ryan Bongetti was his consistent self, while late inclusion Damien Kent was also impressive, Brandon Peart again stuck to the task with a tough role on Mark Brown.
Up forward the inclusion of Dean Pullar payed off with four goals, while Ash Hockey, Jim Cherry and Shaun Wilson had an impact at times.
No easy games for the Tigers now with the chances of playing finals football a real week by week proposition. This Saturday's game against Congupna at home a must win game with some tough weeks ahead.