In a flashback to 12 months ago, Picola again finished the season in seventh place and is again preparing for an elimination semi-final against Tungamah.
In 2024, the Bears had the wood over the Blues in consecutive weeks, concluding the regular season with a 30-point win, before ending Picola’s campaign by 40 in the elimination semi.
However, this year it was the Blues who came away with regular-season bragging rights, scoring a last-second 12.10 (82) to 10.17 (77) win in round 12.
Given the closeness of that game, and Tungamah’s good form against his side in the past, Picola United coach Rhys Woodland expects a tough contest at Tocumwal Recreation Reserve on Sunday.
“I think (we) just (need to) keep it level-headed,” Woodland said.
“Against good sides, they’re going to have their times of dominance, so it’s just weathering the storm as best you can and then taking your opportunities when you’ve got the ascendancy.
“Finals are always about momentum, so if you can make the most of your opportunities when you’ve got the momentum going your way, that’s usually the winner on the day.
“We’ll be looking to take our opportunities and try and nullify them as best we can.”
Picola started the year with momentum but was streaky throughout the season, suffering its six losses in two blocks of three.
Though they were at times embedded in the top four, the Blues ended the year 10-6, dropping back to seventh over the final month.
“We’ve had a little bit of an up and down year, with quite a few injuries,” Woodland said.
“We never look at (injuries) as an excuse, but (we’ve) been a little bit light for quite a few games.
“All in all, it’s always good to make finals, and we go from there.”
The Blues have had plenty of strong contributions throughout the campaign.
Cody Haub and Hayden Brown have been the primary targets up front, Haub slotting 48 majors, good for ninth in the league, while Brown’s 38 places him in 15th.
Woodland praised young gun Matthew Jorgensen as another squad member to have stepped up this campaign.
“Matty Jorgs had a hell of a year, especially the second half of the year,” Woodland said.
“His run and carry has been unreal for a young kid. I’ve been really impressed.
“He’s always shown a lot of promise as a junior, but now to come into senior footy and play the way he is, he’s had a great year.”
Should Picola get through Tungamah, the Blues will get a week off to await the loser of Katamatite and Katandra, who play on August 24.
Picola United takes on Tungamah at Tocumwal Recreation Reserve from 2.05pm this Sunday.
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