Playing at Deakin Reserve against a side that finished the home and away season higher on the ladder, albeit with the same record, the Murray Bombers came out the gate hot.
Both teams were productive in the goal circle, but it was the Murray Bombers who eked out an early 15-10 advantage.
With its season hanging in the balance, the Demons put real attacking pressure on Echuca, tallying 15 goals while limiting the Murray Bombers to 10 to draw level at half-time.
Echuca found its rhythm again in the third period, turning the momentum in its favour, re-establishing a slim, but vital four-goal margin by the final turn.
While Shepparton United made a good account of itself down the stretch, putting 11-goals through the net, it was the Murray Bombers who flew highest – nailing 12 goals in the final frame to escape with the chocolates 51-46.
The win grants Echuca the opportunity to defend its title and potentially go back-to-back at Deakin Reserve on Sunday.
To complete the dream, the Murray Bombers will have to defeat Mooroopna on the biggest stage, a side that prevailed over them in the grand final in 2023.
