ROCHESTER warned opposition Goulburn Murray Cricket sides it could do damage if it reached finals and it has delivered on that message.
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The reigning premier stunned Moama on the weekend to book a place in the grand final against perennial rival Kyabram Fire Brigade.
Three weeks ago, Rochy's hopes of finals looked dead and buried, let alone an opportunity to play off in the big dance once again.
But on Sunday captain Sean Williams lifted Rochester on to his back and scored an unbeaten 154 to help his side chase down Moama's score of 237 inside 56 overs.
Despite the heroics, Williams wasn't prepared to take any credit for the six-wicket win.
“It's always nice to score runs, but the main thing is that we got the job done,” the humble skipper said.
“Dylan (Cuttriss) and Waugh (George) both batted extremely well and it certainly gave me a lot of confidence to go on and make the score I did.
“I'm really proud of how the group has turned everything around in the last few weeks to put us in this position.”
While Moama would have been happy with its first innings score, it could have been much worse for Rochy.
Myles Wade ensured the minor premier would not put a monster total on the board, taking 5-51 in a devastating 19-over spell.
“I thought we bowled well as a group and Myles capped off our good work,” Williams said.
“Myles has been excellent all year and it was great for him to be able to deliver in a big game.
“Our bowling performance certainly gave us a lot of confidence heading into the second day.”
This weekend's grand final will be a replay of last season's match-up and Williams said consistency will be the key to beating the Flames again.
“As we've said all season, we can't leave the job to just one or two players,” he said.
“We're all looking forward to the challenge ahead of us and if we are able to win it would be a great way to finish the season.”
While several of the side's younger players are seeking their first senior premiership, Williams alongside Dylan Cuttriss and Tim Bubb are aiming to win their fourth.
“It would be a special achievement but a lot still has to go right,” Williams said.
“To win a premiership in my first year as captain would be something I would never forget.”
●Meanwhile, Rochester's under 14s fell short in its premiership quest as it went down to Echuca White by 62 runs.
Rochy was all out for 100 on day two of its clash last Thursday as Echuca's Connor Armstrong produced a stunning display of bowling to claim 5-17.
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