There has been little to separate Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta Magpies in the Ovens and Murray C grade netball this season, with Magpies finishing one rung higher on the ladder in second position, just a win and a draw in front.

Since then, both sides have toppled minor premier Myrtleford to find themselves face-to-face in a highly-anticipated derby.

Rovers C grade coach Deb Doyle said the opening round loss to Magpies gave her squad a clear picture of where they needed to lift their game, and the team responded quickly, winning the next three matches in a row.

"Myrtleford have been our greatest rivals; the preliminary final was actually our first win against them this season," Doyle said.

"Raiders were also tough competition, and through the middle of the season we strung together eight consecutive wins, which showed the players’ growing confidence and ability to work together as a team.

Late in the season the Hawks suffered another two losses, and then a qualifying final nine-point defeat against Magpies.

"That defeat hurt, but it also sharpened our focus and reminded us of the intensity required at finals level," Doyle said.

"Since then, the team has thrived on the challenge of bouncing back, producing some thrilling performances that have left both me and the spectators on the edge of our seats.

"It’s truly been a team effort all season.

"When I look back to where we started, I’m proud of the leaps and bounds every player has made in their own game and in how they’ve worked together as a unit.

"In defence, Sam Lyster (GK) has been outstanding.

"Together with Maggie Chant, Ella Masters and Tyler Cleal, they’ve built a formidable defensive line that has been vital to our success.

"In attack, Mia Eddington has been brilliant, consistently finding space and finishing with confidence.

"Holly Semmens has added real strength in the shooting circle, combining well with Lauren Flynn to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

Doyle said, through the midcourt, Lily Shanley has taken her game to a new level.

"She’s stepped up from being a supportive centre to becoming our key play, providing a solid link between defence and attack," she said.

"Charlotte Annett (WA) and Emma Kreltszheim have rotated beautifully, and their contrasting styles keep our play unpredictable and difficult to shut down.

"Our 17 and under players have also been significant throughout the season and on our road to finals.

"They have readily stepped into the side and played with confidence and determination."

Doyle has experienced grand finals before during her impressive and varied netball career but this will be the first time with her home club.

"It has been a real ride," she said

"Heading into the game, my key messages to the team are simple: be confident, trust in your preparation, and enjoy the moment.

"The biggest takeaway from the season, for me, has been the importance of teamwork; not just on court, but working closely with the players and the collective coaching group.

"I’ve gained so much insight from everyone around me, players included.

"Of course, we play to win, and winning makes for a great season, but having fun along the way is just as important.

"There’s plenty of excitement around the club and the town, and I’ve encouraged the players to soak it all up and enjoy the build-up.

"On Wednesday, we trained as a full netball squad: 17s, C grade, and the wider club, with music and good vibes.

"On Friday, we’ll reset, narrow our focus, and prepare for the game ahead."

Rovers C grade

Deb Doyle - Coach

Jenny Annett - Team manager

Shooters

Mia Eddington

Holly Semmens

Lauren Flynn (assist-coach)

Mids

Charlotte Annett

Emma Kreltszheim

Lily Shanley

Defence

Ella Masters

Tyler Cleal (co-capt)

Maggie Chant (co-capt)

Sam Lyster

Extended bench to be confirmed:

U17 players

Lily Lyster

Freya Chant

Lily Palmer