The cavalry is returning for Gundagai as the premiers prepare for a big fortnight leading into finals.
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The Tigers tackle top three rivals Tumut and Southcity in the final two rounds, starting with a clash against the Bulls on Sunday.
Gundagai have only faced one top five opponent since their loss to fourth-placed Albury in Junee.
That was a 18-16 win over Brothers.
Coach Adam Perry believes the side is looking forward to taking on more sides bound for the finals.
"The last few weeks have been a little bit up and down," Perry said.
"We played Brothers, who are going well, but we didn't play great that day so it will be good to face Southcity are see where we are at."
The Tigers will be boosted by the some key returns as well.
Mathew Lyons will play his first game in five weeks, and just his second in the second half of the season after recovering from an AC joint problem.
Joel Field and Noa Fotu have also been named in the starting side.
Field and Fotu both need to pass fitness tests at training on Friday night, but indications are they will be ready for the clash at Harris Park.
It means besides long term injury to Brock Dunn and Dylan Cole, the Tigers will be at full strength for the clash.
Lyons was in breathtaking form for his new club before his shoulder troubles.
Perry is looking forward to having him back in the side.
"He was playing pretty good for us before he got hurt so it will be good to have him back," he said.
"In saying that Corey (Wilson) was doing a good for us back there so hopefully he takes that bit of experience back to the 19s and helps those guys."
The two sides are no stranger to big games having come head-to-head in the last three grand finals.
Gundagai scored a 34-0 when the teams last met, however Perry expects this grand final rematch will be much closer.
"They were probably off their game a bit and we were probably as good as we can be that day so it will be a different game," Perry said.
"I think the boys are looking forward to it, it's another good challenge with semi-finals just around the corner.
"Everyone seems pretty keen."
Southcity are still without star playmaker Nathan Rose but welcome back Hayden Jeans for the clash.
The front rower's return will be a big boost as they look to solidify their top three place.
The Bulls have lost two of their last four games and need to down either the Tigers or Brothers next week to assure themselves a second chance come finals time.
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