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ALBURY co-coach Chris Hyde says Yarrawonga’s miraculous preliminary final comeback was a timely reminder for the Tigers about how dangerous the Pigeons could be in Sunday’s decider.
Hyde said he wasn’t shocked to see Yarrawonga come from 35 points down to pinch a spot in the grand final with a one-point win over Lavington at Albury Sportsground.
“They’re able to kick multiple goals and kick them quickly,” he said.
“Lavi was up, but I didn’t ever think they’d put it beyond doubt.
“When the game is still in the balance and you’ve got two quality sides and quality players running around — it’s never over until it’s over.”
The star midfielder said the Tigers had experienced that first-hand over recent years.
“We’ve had some classic tussles,” Hyde said.
“I still think back to 2011, I know the sides have changed a lot since, but I think it was round 17 at home and we were 40 or 50 points up and Yarra came back to within six points in the last quarter.
“I think both sides know it’s not over until the siren goes.
“Both sides have got potent forward lines and players that can impact a game, so it usually goes right to the wire.”
Hyde wasn’t buying the favourites tag, despite thrashing the Pigeons by a combined 125 points the past two times the teams have met, in round 10 and the second semi-final.
“I think there’s two sides who will run out on Sunday that are a genuine chance to win the game,” Hyde said.
“This is our sixth time playing on this day.
“In terms of what the media speak about as far as favourites and mind games, I think both clubs are pretty much, not over it, but realise the game is won from 2pm onwards on Sunday.
“I think sometimes it probably gets beaten up a bit.”