A five-goal haul by Rockbank’s Christopher Warrell was almost enough to give the Rams an upset win against Riddell on Saturday.
But the Bombers were able to steady and hold on for an eight-point win, 15.12 (102) to 14.10 (94), in the Riddell District Football League.
Despite being three places lower than Riddell on the ladder, Rockbank showed why it will be tough to beat if it does qualify for finals.
The Rams, now in sixth spot on the ladder, fought back from 19 down at half time to cut the margin to single figures late in the match.
As well as Warrell up forward, the Rams were well served by Jai Granvillani (3 goals) and Jamie Zerafa (2).
For Riddell, Brian Ruffell was the standout, his seven goals proving the difference.
Despite the loss, the Rams are all but guaranteed a place in finals as they hold a one-game and 31 percentage-point lead over seventh-placed Lancefield.
The Rams will meet eighth-placed Wallan in the final home-and-away game of the season.
Elsewhere in the RDFL, Diggers Rest smashed Melton Centrals by 114 points, 23.15 (153) to 5.9 (39).
