The Bombers have pushed Hampden’s second- and third-ranked sides the past two weeks, but second half fadeouts have cost them, according to coach Levi Dare.

“We’ve really pushed South and Koroit and been in winnable positions in those games,” he said.

“These first half performaces (have been good) … but our second halves are costing us.

“We’ve won a lot of games this year compared to the last few years, but especially against those top sides, we’re just not putting them away when we have the chance.”

Seagulls coach Brett Evans said his charges – which are holding off reigning premier Koroit for top spot by just 0.63 per cent – were expecting a tough challenge from the Bombers, who were neck-and-neck with Port Fairy for a half last time they met, before being overrun in the second half.

“I was really impressed with them last time,” Evans said.

“They were missing their coach last time as well, so we’re expecting it to be a really tough game.”