The Bombers accounted for Devonport by 96 points on Saturday at Devonport Oval, coming back from an early three goal deficit to win 24.9 (153) to 8.9 (57).

It was their second dominant outing in a row, following their 85-point win over Launceston on Good Friday, with last year’s runners-up sitting undefeated after four matches.

“You always hope you can go to another level,’’ Couch said.

“They are going to be a good side Devonport, and I don’t think the scoreboard reflected their effort, as they had a real crack.

“But our boys dug deep and started to play the way we wanted to play from about the 20 minute mark of the first quarter and started to get the game on our terms.”

The home side’s ability to clamp down on North’s runners early on was first-rate, with their pressure and intensity delivering them an 18-0 lead.

But, seemingly out of nowhere, North kicked the next three in a blink of an eye.

Even though it took a Couch goal after the quarter-time siren to ensure they would lead, the signs were worrying for Devonport.

The Bombers’ run was back for all to see in the final three quarters, and the young Pies were unable to keep up.

With Alex Lee dominant in the ruck, a midfield just as strong, and forward-line full of options, they were unstoppable.

The Bombers kicked 20.5 to 5.2 after quarter-time, with Zach Burt (six goals), Couch (four), Mark Walsh (three), Brad Cox-Goodyer (two) and youngster Kaleb Thomas (two) leading the charge.

“I think the forwards are starting to click, and the backline is really solid at the moment, but we always want to improve,’’ he said.

“So to concede those three goals early was a little bit disappointing, but we trialed a few things, but we shelved that pretty quickly and went back to how we set up in the past and that worked for us.”

Couch said the ability of his side to run out the game was one of the most pleasing aspects for him from the first set of matches for the season.

Devonport coach Mitch Thorp again conceded skill errors were hurting, but he knows the effort is still well and truly there for his developing side.

Quade Byard and Brad Symmons were outstanding in the middle, while Brayden Butler continued his fine season with another 30 plus disposals and two goals for the winless Magpies.

North next week will host Burnie at UTAS Stadium, while Devonport have a Saturday night engagement with Hobart City Demons at North Hobart Oval.