It was a back-and-and-fourth affair for the Rebels who took on the Bushrangers at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

A tightly contested first quarter saw neither team gain an advantage as the Rebels took a two point lead into the first break.

An early major yielded a brief lead for the Bushrangers in the second quarter, before back-to-back goals from Mitchell Martin and Ben Hobbs kept the Rebels in front by three points at half-time.

The Bushrangers looked ominous to start the third, reclaiming the advantage early. But it was short-lived as goals from from Fraser Marris, Mathew Lloyd, and a second to Martin, saw the Rebels take an 18-point lead into the final break.

The Rebels carried the momentum into the final term, extending the lead to 29, before two late majors from the Bushrangers reduced the deficit to 15.

But it wasn't enough to catch the Rebels who won the contest 8.11-59 to 5.14-44. Martin kicked three goals for the match.

The win marked the first time the Rebels have defeated the Bushrangers this season.

The win takes the Rebels to tenth spot on the NAB League table. Their finals chances will hinge on the outcome of the league's wildcard round yet to be played.

The Rebels have won four of its last five matches.