The Saints, who trailed by 35 points at the first break, managed to restrict Terrigal to just two goals for the remainder of the game to run out 15.16-106 to 10.1-61 winners at East Gosford.

While the Saints eventually took care of business against Terrigal Avoca, Singleton lost its first game of the season going down at home by 22 points to Wynong Lakes.

Singleton’s loss saw the Saints and Wyong jump the Roosters on the ladder. 

The competition is increasingly looking like a battle in three with the Saints having a superior percentage to Wyong and Singleton. Maitland and the Magpies both have seven wins from their eight games, while Singleton has a game in hand and a six-one record.

There nearest opponent is Gosford two wins behind the top three. 

The Saints reserves and women’s team were both big losers on Saturday.

Terrigal defeated the Saints 22.14-146 to 2.5-17.

The Saints women travelled to face reigning premiers Nelson Bay, who kept their undefeated record intact with a 101-point victory.

Aiden Damico made a welcome return to goal kicking form for the Saints senior team with three goals. Skipper Wade Beard also kicked three goals to take his season tally to 20, equal top with Wyong’s Aaron Kosub.

Saints vice-captain Riley Newstead was best on ground ahead of Mick Norton and Dustin Spriggs.