GRIFFITH came agonisingly close to one of its best wins in years as it fell four points short of an upset over reigning premier Coolamon at Kindra Park yesterday.

The Swans gave it everything they had but were four points short when the final siren sounded as Coolamon gained a vital four points, winning 10.10 (70) to 9.12 (66).

Former Greater Western Sydney-listed player Joe Redfern proved the difference in his guest appearance for his junior club as he proved a handful up forward and finished with five goals.

Griffith's gun recruit Michael Handby lived up to expectations with a dominant performance in the midfield as he and good mate, ruckman Michael Griffiths, starred in their first game together in more than a decade.

Fellow Swans recruit Josh Hamilton had a set shot from 50 metres out with two minutes remaining on the clock but pushed it right for a behind.

Griffith continued to attack only for the siren to sound and Coolamon to sneak home.

Coolamon coach Lew Roberts knew there was nothing between both teams and was happy to come away with an important win.

"Happy to get the four points," he said.

"It was good to see the effort there again I guess.

"Last week we were disappointing, taking nothing away from Collingullie they were really good, but just our effort and intensity wasn't there.

"So it was good to see that and grind out a tough hard win.

"They had a really good side in today so full credit to them but it was good to see us stick it out."

Griffith kicked the opening two goals of the game though Handby and Guy Orton, before Redfern marked his return to the green and white.

He kicked three goals in the opening quarter, finished with five and could have had more if he had taken a shot on goal instead of trying to pass off.

Handby, the Yarrawonga recruit, Griffiths and Orton did everything they possibly could to try and lift Griffith over the line.

They were instrumental but not alone, as James Taylor, Glen Snaidero, coach Brandon Mathews and Richard Malone all put in big efforts.

Griffith went into the game without Mick Duncan, Che Jenkins, James Fallon and Dean Crack.

---The Daily Advertiser