Inconsistency has plagued the reigning premiers all season, which showed in last weekend’s draw with Turvey Park. 

The Crows were able to cement fifth on the Riverina Football League ladder, but there are no second chances for the side. 

To make this year’s grand final and defend their title they will need to win every game from here on out, starting with Mangoplah Cookardinia United Eastlakes Football Club on Sunday at Narrandera Sportsground. 

“You do treat it like the start of a new season, but there are no second chances for us,” Hodge said. 

“I’ve made no secret of the fact I was pretty disappointed with last week’s effort against Turvey, but we’ve put that behind us now. 

“It’s all systems go for us.

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“We’ve got a full squad to pick from, which is the first time that has happened all year.”

The Crows and the Goannas have had interesting matches in their two encounters this season. 

MCUE picked up a win in the round one battle, while the Crows got home in the second meeting. 

“We only just ended up beating them last time … we started really well against them but then we faded,” Hodge said. 

“This weekend we know we can’t do that. We’ve got to be on the ball for the full four quarters.”

The elimination final will be held at Narrandera Sportsground on Sunday and the coach believes the venue will likely suit both clubs. 

With the Crows having plenty of experience playing at the ground during the finals last year, the wide open spaces should again benefit their run and carry in delivering the ball to their forward pack. 

“Mango are a quality side,” Hodge said. 

“It’s not going to be an easy game. One hundred per cent I think our team are fighters. 

“They’ve battled hard all year. I’m confident we can get the job done. 

“It’s just a matter of making sure we execute all of our skills.”

Hodge will head to Wagga on Saturday to watch the qualifying final between Collingullie-Glenfield Park and Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong. 

Draw for Leeton-Whitton sides in this weekend’s finals

Saturday, qualifying final, Robertson Oval

Football

Under 17s, 9.30am: Collingullie-Glenfield Park v Leeton-Whitton

Netball

Under 17s, 9am: MCUE v Leeton-Whitton, A reserve, 12.15pm: Turvey Park v Leeton-Whitton

Sunday, elimination final, Narrandera Sportsground

Football

First grade, 2.15pm: MCUE v Leeton-Whitton

Netball: C grade, 10am: Griffith v Leeton-Whitton, B grade, 11am: Leeton-Whitton v Griffith