The two sides are likely to meet during the finals series.

They have each hit their straps at the right time of the season and are challengers for the premiership.

The Tigers held Hill End scoreless last weekend and recorded a 141 point win, the season's biggest.

They have dominated in the midfield for much of the season, with the competition's in-form ruckman Don Webb and Clancy Bennett giving them first use out of the centre.

Last time the two sides matched up Mirboo North fielded its best line-up of the season and had a big 51 point victory with Webb dominating in the ruck.

Morwell East, which had a minor setback against Yinnar last weekend, also has some handy players who will be given the task of negating the impact of the Tigers midfield.

Wes Amalos and Rod Peatey have had good seasons for the Hawks, while Eddie Lithgow has been important across half back.

The Tigers will have to shut down veteran Hawk forward Dave Walker who is still capable of winning a match off his own boot if he kicks a bag of goals.

If Saturday is again wet as expected, both sides will probably rest some of their better players who may be carrying injuries, rather than risk them so close to the finals.

In a tough match to tip, Mirboo North will be in front by just a couple of kicks at the final siren.

Bombers ready for finals bid

TRAFALGAR remains the only side Yallourn/Yallourn North has not won points against this season.

The two sides face off in the last test for the Bombers before they begin their first finals campaign since 2003.

The Bombers will be out to prove they are not just making up the numbers in the finals series and can push Trafalgar this weekend.

The Bloods had an easy run in the second half against Boolarra and will be forced to shake off a persistent YYN outfit in the final term.

Yarragon seeks a final victory

THE season's most improved side Yarragon can end the season with its best return since 2001 if it defeats Thorpdale.

The Panthers have won six games this year, compared to two for the entire 2007 season.

With several returning players and new recruits to work with, coach Lloyd Burgman had the Panthers playing often exciting football during the season but a shocking run of injuries ended any finals hopes.

They have won just one game from the last seven rounds after knocking on the door of the final five at the halfway mark of the season.

Thorpdale's year has been disappointing.

A handful of players have stood out all season but there have been too few others on board.

Last time they met, the Panthers had a big second term and won by 58 points in their most impressive victory of the year.

Hill End to play for pride

HILL End will try to restore some pride against Newborough after failing to register a score last weekend.

The Hillmen were thrashed out of the middle and could do little but watch as Mirboo North blew them away.

They have not managed a win since beating an undermanned Yarragon in round one but they have unearthed some talent.

Several young players from Hill End's top of the ladder thirds side have made an impression in the seniors during the year and the team's future looks bright.

Newborough has also had the chance to blood some of its youngsters this year.

The Bulldogs are in the unfamiliar position of not taking part in finals action.

They will go out with a bang this weekend with a big win over Hill End.

Magpies ready to swoop

YINNAR will be favoured to record a comfortable win against Boolarra.

The Demons, like Yarragon, have had an improved season but the second half of the year has been disappointing, with just two wins in the last 11 games.

The Magpies are preparing themselves for the second semi final in two weeks time and will enter the finals series as hot premiership favourites.