Since defeating the Gators by 12 points in November on the back of seven three-pointers by Matt Asquith, Merrilees has put plenty of time into stopping the flow at the other end of the court.

“The work the players have done since then, especially on their defence, will surprise the Gators and they will find it very difficult to get things happening,” Merrilees said.

“We are the best defensive team in this competition and we also possess a group of guys committed to getting the job done.

“Our boys will be focused and hard at it.

“Our advantage is probably inside with Dylan Webb, Broady Mills, Beau Sheridan, Joldy Bradley and Josh McKay rotating through there.

“Shep will battle to contain them all.

“We have a 12-player roster and I have every confidence in them all playing their role.”

The Gators are well coached by Steve Nioa, a well-known junior Victorian state representative coach, and boast a talented back court in Matt Bartlett, Shannon Ralph and Zaine Allen.

They also possess talented talls in Ben Cox and the Woodcock brothers.

Wodonga had an easier path to the final by thrashing Wangaratta, while the Gators were forced to slug it out with Seymour before a one-point win in overtime.

The Wolves also have experience in grand finals after winning last year.

“Last week we had over 40 points come from the bench — we will need the same if we are to taste victory,” Merrilees said.