The Silverdome match-up saw the table-leading Hawks jump out to a 20-6 lead at the first quarter, thanks to a smooth effort from its mid-courters including Issy Maskell and Steph Walker.

"Issy played another really good game for us," Hawks captain Gemma Poke said.

"I think every second ball, she was taking intercepts, especially in the first quarter."

But things simmered down for the home team as the match progressed, thanks to a veracious effort from a Devon team that got embarrassed the week before by the Cavaliers 70-31 at the same venue.

The Hawks were out-scored 14-12 in the final term, something Poke said needed to be worked on.

"We were really expecting it because last time we played them we lost a quarter as well which for us is not where we want to be," she said.

"We knew they'd be going in with a little bit of confidence that they could bring it to us.

"We also know there are no easy games for us from here on in ... it really reiterated to us that we have to keep the foot down at all times or else those things can happen."

Poke said, however, the shooting prowess of Ashlea Mawer continued to keep the Hawks one step ahead of any competition due to her sheer dominance in the circle.

"She gets a lot of attention from defenders, so she stood up and played a really great game," Poke said.

"She's just so reliable for us."

The side also welcomed back the veteran presence of winger Lydia Coote, who had missed nearly two months with an ankle injury.

"We're so happy to have her back in that wing defence position, providing that pressure we're so known for now," Poke added.

The Hawks will brace for a showdown with second-placed rival Cavs in Launceston next week.