Hawks coach Gavin McMahon got the lift in effort he asked for, and a crucial four premiership points came with it, after an 11.12 (78) to 8.11 (59) victory against the Blues.

“Absolutely, that was more back to how we were against Temora the week before,” McMahon said, comparing the effort to last week’s lacklustre loss to the Jets.

“We weren’t measuring this week with the win or loss but in their ability to compete and play for each other.

“Both sides kept having a go and competed hard but no-one really had the ascendancy the whole time.”

In a physical encounter, the Hawks led narrowly at every change but with three goals in the final term were able to seal the win.

Brocke Argus kicked three goals while Ben Perkins provided a target on his return and picked up two. 

At the back, Brenton Roberts and Tim Smith led a strong defensive effort against a Coleambally set-up including plenty of height in coach Michael Griffiths and former coach Josh Hamilton, who both kicked two goals. 

“I think the back six were outstanding all day,” McMahon said. 

“They competed well and it was a consistent effort across the board so I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Graham O’Connell and Tom Groves were the pick of the Blues.