The Tigers will enter their Anzac Day clash with Hamilton Kangaroos brimming with confidence after securing their second one-point win in two weeks on Saturday.

Coach Luke Crane said he was “absoluetely pumped” following his charges’ gutsy 12.10 (82) to 12.9 (81) result over North Warrnambool Eagles at Bushfield Recreation Reserve.

The narrow victory came seven days after they snuck home against Warrnambool.

Crane said the Tigers’ approach to the close finishes was a sign of a maturing team.

“We pressured really well and were smart at the end of the game,” he said.

“We were smart enough to know to hold the footy up and kick down the line.

“We were good in the clinches at holding the ball in.

“There’s still a lot to improve on but the last five to 10 minutes was really smart.”

Aaron Shepherd, who finished with three majors, kicked the sealer, helping the Tigers “get in front in the last few minutes and manage to hold on again”.

Crane said the Tigers’ belief was growing.

“It’s a change around – the year before (in 2016) we were on the wrong end of a lot of close ones, so it’s really nice to peg a couple back,” he said.

“It is a good way to win but we’d prefer to be a bit further in front.”

Portland was 10 points down at the final break but scored four goals to North Warrnambool’s two to edge home.

The Tigers’ back line, including Daniel Jackson and Harrison Hampshire, won praise from Crane for its role.

Crane said the Tigers would regain utility Tom Sharp, who missed due to a wedding, for Wednesday’s Anzac Day clash at Hanlon Park.

He expects Jesse Murray and Felix Jones, who played reserves, to push for a spot in the senior outfit.

The short turnaround will test their recovery methods. 

“On Monday night we’ll go to the beach and pool and on Tuesday we’ll have a light run, barely anything – a kick and catch,” Crane said.