Gallery | Goulburn Valley’s lower-grade bowlers braved the searing heat on Saturday

However, Tally faced a tough proposition in Seymour VRI, with their high-quality opponent eager to stay in touch with first-placed Shepparton Golf.

The match didn’t start in the host’s favour, with Seymour VRI skipper Michael Szczykulski leading his team to a dominant first rink win, 16-27.

Tally, led by skipper Damien Williams, fought back in the second rink, but fell agonisingly short to lose 19-21.

A three-shot loss in the third rink saw Tallygaroopna again produce a valiant effort, but it wasn’t to be.

The host finally broke through in the fourth rink thanks to a team led by skipper Mick Hanna who secured Tally a 17-14 victory.

Despite their brave effort against a top division two side, Tally lost the match 2-69 to 16-82.

Tallygaroopna remains in last place with a record of 1-5, while Seymour VRI sits second on 4-1-1.

In other division two fixtures, Shepparton Golf dominated Tatura-Hill Top away from home 0-46 to 18-95.

Shepparton Park defeated Nagambie in a tight encounter 4-74 to 14-79, while Seymour defeated East Shepparton 4-63 to 14-83.