The Bombers set up their 41-32 win over the Kangaroos in a dominant first quarter, with other results opening the passage for a return to fifth spot.

“Every game is really crucial,” McNamara said.

“We didn’t help our cause losing a couple earlier on in the year, but we know that and we know it’s going to take hard work to stay in there.”

The Bombers shot 16 goals to six in the opening quarter and while they talked about trying to hold onto the lead and build on it, the Kangaroos fought back.

The home team made on change in the second quarter, bringing Alanna Cottrill into centre, and got within five goals in the third term, before Cobden pulled away again.

McNamara praised the efforts of Jessica Wheadon, who held down the goal keeper position for three quarters, before swinging to goal shooter to cover for the ill Natalie Tongs.

“(Wheadon) has always been quite a versatile player – in juniors she played both ends,” McNamara said.

“Her accuracy isn’t quite as high as the others’, but it’s something she is working on.”

The Bombers have been trialling Wheadon as a third shooter at various stages this season to ensure they have options.

Hamilton Kangaroos coach Kelsey Lewis was pleased with the way her team responded after quarter-time.

“It was just our full-court defensive pressure,” she said.

“The girls really stepped it up. They came back out and they won two quarters.”