Having lost their previous three games, the Magpies recorded a 25-point win over the Royals, prevailing 16.14 (110) to 13.7 (85).

The Magpies opened up a decisive break during the second quarter when, after kicking five goals to one, they led by 39 points at half-time, 10.4 to 4.1.

Aaron Wilson was lively inside 50 for the Magpies, finishing with six goals to be one of their best players.

Cameron Milward again starred for the Magpies to be rated among their best players for the ninth game in a row, while Jesse Smith - who has also had a ripping season - and Sam Dehne were other standouts.

Donald’s score of 85 was its highest since kicking 15.4 (94) against St Arnaud in round one. 

The Royals outscored the Magpies nine goals to six after half-time in what was the first time this season they’ve won a half, which is a positive they can take from the game.

Darby Harrison, Seamus Young (four goals), Glennn Wyatt and Luke Carr were among the better players for the Royals.

• Charlton proved too strong for Birchip-Watchem in a 52-point victory over the Bulls.

The Navy Blues held the Bulls scoreless in the first term en route to a 16.9 (105) to 8.5 (53) victory.

Travis Baird bagged seven goals for Charlton, and now has 16 in his past three games, while Joseph McGrath chipped in with four for the Navy Blues.

The better players for the Navy Blues in what was their sixth-straight win over Birchip-Watchem included Daniel Thiesz, Rhys Thompson, Baird, and Ben Walklate.

The loss was the third in a row for the Bulls and cost them their position in the top four.

Joel Cusack, Samuel O’Louglin and Bradlee Smith (three goals) played well for the Bulls.