Cowling netted once as Rangers forged a great escape against Daylesford, with Isaac Slater slotting two goals in the dying moments to steal a 3-2 triumph on Sunday.

The 18-year-old described the upcoming month as a litmus test and said an ability to grind out results would be a vital.

Warrnambool is scheduled for clashes with reigning Ballarat and District Soccer Association premier Forest Rangers and ladder leader Buninyong in the next month.

“I reckon we’re more confident going forward, and playing against the tougher teams we’re going to have to play as we did against Daylesford and just fight hard,” Cowling said.

“Converting (goalscoring chances) is going to be massively important. 

“We’ve implemented a new formation and it’s working well for us – having the few extra guys up the top. 

“I think we’ll stick with it for now.”

Cowling said his side remained faithful to its passing philosophy in order to sink Daylesford.

“They liked to play a very narrow defence, so that’s how we managed to pass our way through for those goals,” he said.

“It was our most satisfying win of the season. When Slater kicked that last goal, we were stoked. We really got around him because it was so neck-and-neck.”