THE Bendigo Bank Bombers yesterday lost their fourth-consecutive game of the VFL season, but not before giving reigning premier North Ballarat an almighty scare.In a game switched to Essendon’s Windy Hill because of surface concerns with the Queen Elizabeth Oval, the Roosters prevailed by six points in a thriller, 15.14 (104) to 15.8 (98).Yesterday’s defeat leaves the Bombers – who had at one stage been 5-1 – with a 5-5 record and in seventh position heading into their mid-season break.The Bombers had led by seven points during the last quarter, but the Roosters showed their class to answer Bendigo’s challenge and beat their country rivals for the 11th time in 12 meetings.“It was a heartbreaking loss, but it’s probably the best we’ve played all year,’’ Bombers coach Shannon Grant said.“We played some really good footy, and for the guys to stick at it with the injuries we had... the boys were out on their feet in the last 10 minutes, but their intent and attack on the ball was first class.“We had our opportunities in the last quarter, but we didn’t take them and, as a result, it came down to North Ballarat making more of their chances.’’North Ballarat’s victory over the Bombers improved the Roosters’ record to 8-2 as they pursue a hat-trick of premierships.“We’re just gutted, because the football we played today was outstanding,’’ Grant said.“There’s a few areas we need to have a look at and make sure we learn from.“But apart from that I thought the way the guys went about it today was outstanding.’’The Bombers suffered injury blows to Anthony Long and star midfielder Hayden Skipworth, who both did hamstrings.The best players for the Bombers were led by Irishman Michael Quinn, who kicked three goals.Quinn, who has been in fine form recently, is now the Bombers’ leading goalkicker this season with 12.Also in the best for the Bendigo was Ben Howlett, Kyle Hardingham, Christian Bock, Bachar Houli and Kyle Reimers.Aaron Edwards, Corey Jones and Stephen Dinnell kicked three goals apiece for the Roosters, who led at every change by 11, 14, seven and six points.The Bombers’ next game will be against Frankston on Sunday, July 4. It’s scheduled for the QEO.