Four out of four Sapphire Coast AFL (SCAFL) grand finals will feature the Merimbula Diggers on Saturday, three of those will be against the Pambula Panthers.
Both clubs are enjoying the most successful seasons in their recent history, but will have to outdo the other for a premiership flag on Saturday.
The senior Diggers secured entry after an emphatic win over the Bermagui Breakers.
“We played four games against Bermagui this season and it was two apiece,” Diggers president Chris Hawkins said.
“It was a great game, which showed on the scoreboard and after talking to the Bermagui president we both agreed how good the spirit it was played in.”
Meanwhile, it was Pambula that relegated Merimbula to the preliminary clash.
“The club is excited to have three grades through,” Panthers president Bryan Hammond said.
“But you have to congratulate Merimbula on having four teams through, it’s a fantastic effort from them.”
Hawkins said the senior Diggers were ready for the match, without any major injuries from their game.
“Everyone pulled up pretty good, I will know more after training tonight, but they look fine,” Hawkins said.
“You play the whole year to get in the grand final, so our preparation will be the same as what it has been each week.”
Meanwhile, the Panthers are in the enviable position of having too many players to choose from.
“We have the pick of the litter, there is going to be a few disappointed guys, but it is a good position for the club to be in,” Hammond said.
The scenario is vastly different from last year.
“Last year we were ringing around trying to find guys to play - it is nice to be full strength and have no injury concerns.
“It is a real testament to the club and the position we are in that we have had such great depth and the development grade to call on.
“They will be at full strength on Saturday too,” he said.
While acknowledging some standout performances from the season, both presidents said they hoped to see an all-round effort from their squads.
“The only thing you can hope for is the 20 players selected having a good game,” Hawkins said.
Hammond said he had faith in all the Panthers players.
“The luxury we have had this year is the level of players right across the park.
“Even the four guys on the bench aren’t weaker players - you just have to start with four on the bench.”
Hawkins said he wasn’t letting statistics get to him and the Diggers were ready.
“Everyone stands up and the pressure is on Pambula really.
“They’re undefeated which is a credit to them, but it is the grand final and anything can happen.”
Hammond said his players were keen, but not getting ahead of themselves.
“It is the final hurdle, but the guys are keeping a lid on it,” Hammond said.
“There is too many stories of clubs going undefeated only to be knocked off in the grand final.”
Enjoying a phenomenal year, both clubs said it was largely due to the hard work of committees, players and volunteers.
“I have to thank the committee, players and supporters and everyone who has had their bit in this club,” Hawkins said.
“Hopefully we can bring home some silverware to repay their hard work”
Meanwhile, Hammond said it made his job easier with the strong support from the club.
“It comes from a lot of people working hard behind the scenes.
“We’re very fortunate, and as a president I am overwhelmed by the support and success the club has had.”
Matches start at the Berrambool Oval, Merimbula, Saturday from 9.20am.
The senior game starts at 2.30pm.
Jacob McMaster
Last Modified on 02/02/2015 15:32