LIVING 30-kilometres from Corryong, Evan Nicholas doesn’t get to town too often.
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But the Demon coach reckons he has a fair idea what the main topic of discussion will be in Hanson Street this week.
Corryong play Federal for the Upper Murray league premiership on Saturday and Nicholas can almost hear the banter from Biggara Valley.
“The rivalry is definitely still there,” Nicholas said.
“When Corryong play Federal, it’s always a bit different to other grand finals.
“I think it comes more from the older generation than the actual players to be honest.
“I was asked to move away from Federal’s huddle at the weekend which I thought was pretty funny.”
Nicholas is one of three Corryong players, along with James Barlee and Daniel McInnes, to taste success at the club and the league best and fairest winner desperately wants to add to that select group.
Although the Demons have won 31 flags and Federal 23, it’s been somewhat of a drought for both clubs.
Corryong last tasted premiership success when it defeated Federal by 51 points in the 2005 grand final while Federal edged out Bullioh by eight points in 2007.
The Demons have lost three grand finals since then and the Swans two.
Corryong belted Federal in the second semi-final but Nicholas admits the Swans are a far more formidable line-up with Darren and Matt Bradshaw and Brent Ohlin in the line-up.
“It threw us out a bit last time we played because Federal had a shorter forward-line,” he said.
“We have a tall back-line and I think we will match-up OK.
“I’m assuming they will all play.
“We’re happy with our preparation and I think we have a side well suited to play in an Upper Murray grand final.”
Barlee is the obvious choice to pick up Darren Bradshaw while Brenton Low could be another option.
At the other end of the ground, Swan backman Cam Tyrell is likely to be handed the task of stopping Demon forward Nathan Grimes.
Josh Warren-Marmo and Matt Dekoeyer will also command respect.
Nicholas believes his side will be suited by a potential heavy track with more rain forecast for the next 48 hours.
“I think it suits us,” he said.
“We usually play well in the wet.”
Grand final draw:
Seniors: Corryong v Federal at 2.15pm; reserves: Cudgewa v Federal at 12.30pm; under 16s: Tumbarumba v Federal at 11.15am; under 13s: Federal v Corryong 10.15am.