Tigers chasing a slice of history against Diorites in reserves decider

Boulder coach Brenton Marr says the allure of rare back-to-back flags is a driving force for the entire squad heading into Saturday’s reserves grand final against Mines Rovers.

The Tigers were the minor premiers with 13 wins but lowered their colours against Mines Rovers by 15 points in the second semifinal.

After his squad rebounded in last weekend’s preliminary final to beat Railways by 53 points, Marr said his players had been their own worst enemy, by way of poor kicking, last time out against the Diorites.

“We didn’t help ourselves that day — especially in that third quarter when we had the seven consecutive behinds and we couldn’t buy a goal,” Marr said.

“But we’ve been working hard on trying to address a couple of those issues and with the league team going out (of flag contention) we’ve got a few boys who will drop back.

“That will be the case too for the Diorites so I’m expecting we’ll likely see two totally different teams from the second semifinal.”

A keen 2024 rivalry between the teams during the qualifiers included two draws, in rounds six and round 11.

Mines Rovers won the round one clash by 18 points and Boulder were successful in round 16 by 14 points.

“Being an old school Tiger, I’ve got that passion — especially against the Diorites right next door because there’s no love lost there,” he said.

“Derbies are a big game at any time, let alone a grand final derby, and a replay of last year’s grand final as well.

“I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t a little bit of pressure there, but there’s no negative vibes.

“It’s all positive, but with a few natural nerves which is to be expected.

“We don’t believe the club has ever gone back-to-back (premiers) in the reserves before — I’m quite a history buff and it would be nice to create a bit of our own history which I really enjoy.”

Mines Rovers, however, are well-rested following the second semifinal and carry a four-game winning streak into the decider.

It included a 68-point win against Kalgoorlie in round 18 and they emerged from the qualifiers with three of the competition’s most consistent goal kickers in Kevin Lewis, Chris Strano and Jacob Potts.