Chasing East Albury’s 143, O’Connor and his teammates capitulated for 63 at Alexandra Park.

“We bowled well that day and faced 15 or 20 overs before stumps and Cam White ripped through us,” O’Connor said.

“From then on we had a good, hard look at ourselves and gritted our teeth and worked harder and the results started to show.

“We ramped up training after being in a bit of a slump with our batting and things started to improve from that point.”

O’Connor, who has made 89 of his 254 first grade runs in Lavington’s past two matches, believes the Panthers tough draw has been another factor heading into Saturday’s grand final.

The club has played a top six side in its last seven matches.

“I think that’s helped,” he said.

“We are fairly match hardened.”

Lavington also hold no fears about playing away from home with the Panthers’ last match being at Lavington Oval on October 29.

Wodonga has 13 wins this year and the Panthers 12, with North Albury next best on 10.