North Wagga assistant coach Guy Ward says the Saints are in good spirits heading in to Saturday's preliminary final against Marrar and is confident they can avoid crashing out of finals.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Saints have lost four of their last five games against the Bombers, including last year's grand final.
They're desperate for a shot at another flag, and another shot at the team already there, East Wagga-Kooringal.
"Definitely, it's not panic stations," Ward said.
"To go through the season the way we did, with only two losses, is a pretty big positive and I think the boys have the hunger and drive and know how to win, like good sides do. We're in a good spot and good spirits so we're ready.
"East Wagga was just a minor slip-up (last week). I think if we turn up and play our best footy that'll definitely get us thought to a grand final, and the ability to win one for us."
As it has all year, pressure, and applying it early, is likely to decide the game, particularly in predicted wet and windy conditions.
"That'll be the key tomorrow, intensity at the contest and around the ground. The conditions aren't going to be great, which seems to be the case for Marrar-North Wagga games, so I think it'll be tight," Ward said.
"It's just who can put the early pressure on, and get the other side to crack, and then take your opportunities."
An ankle injury in round two against Marrar has kept Ward to just nine games and hampered his first year back at the Saints.
He was sidelined when the teams last met in round 11 and said the Bombers were rewarded that day for wanting it more and their willingness to work harder.
But he was among their best last week, getting in to space, injecting some spark and illustrating skill.
Ward's been named to start in the centre on Saturday.
READ MORE