The Blues’ best hope for a premiership, the minor premier under-14 footballers, didn’t put in their most dominant showing of the season, but they got the job done against Dookie United at Katandra.
For a side that’s averaging more than 100 points a contest, the 3.6 (24) to 3.1 (19) win was uncharacteristically low scoring for United, but a win is a win in finals football.
Beau Griffiths slotted all three majors for the Blues as they earned a bye into the preliminary final.
Picola is set to take on the winner of Tocumwal and Tungamah at Waaia Recreation Reserve on September 6, with a grand final spot on the line.
After finishing fourth, the Blues’ C-reserve squad faced up to minor premiers Deniliquin Rovers in a qualifying final.
Although the Rovers’ quality shone through in a 36-24 victory, Picola lives to fight another day.
The side will now take on Katunga at Jerilderie on Saturday, looking to win its way back into a preliminary final.
Mathoura’s under-15 netballers will also be in action at Monash Park and the club's last remaining hope now knows its opponent.
The Timbercutters will take on Tocumwal after the Bloods were defeated by Tungamah.