After the Bushies hit the lead at the 12-minute-mark of the final term, the Chargers hit back strongly to show why they are on top of the table after five rounds.

Yet it was a vastly improved performance by the Bushies a week earlier when Darren Ogier’s line-up lost to the North Ballarat Rebels.

Lavington’s Ryan Garthwaite and Myrtleford’s Brady Sharp were outstanding in defence and Congupna’s Luke Smith kicked four goals.

Coach Ogier said it had been disappointing to fall short after his team had improved so much in a few days.

“The boys had a fair crack at it but when we needed to get the job done we didn’t have enough players put their hand up to achieve what we wanted,” Ogier said.

“That’s not taking anything away from Oakleigh — they are a very good side.

“Our pressure was good for a lot of the game but we couldn’t contain them when they got out the back.

“It was a good effort but we are certainly disappointed not to get the job done.”

The Bushrangers were hampered by Max Canfield and North Albury forward Josh Minogue being restricted due to concussion and injury.

They take on Calder at Craigieburn next Saturday.

“That will be a huge game for us,” Ogier said.

“We are 2-2 now and don’t want to slip behind.

“I thought this game was a step in the right direction and, hopefully, we can build on it against Calder.

“There were a lot of positives, that’s for sure.”

The boys had a fair crack at it but when we needed to get the job done we didn’t have enough players put their hand up.