And Magpie coach Craig Bosley is hell-bent on staying in the race for as long as possible even though they will start outsiders against Bullioh in Saturday’s preliminary final at Bullioh.

“There is a bit of a buzz around the club and the boys are just enjoying being part of the finals again,” Bosley said.

“I guess we don’t have a lot to lose and can just go out and put everything into it.

“We’ll just attack the footy hard and see where it takes us.”

Bullioh has been too accomplished in head-to-head battles this season with Zac Burhop, Brandyn Phillips, Jake Fisher-Curnow and Clint Ried the obvious dangers.

Star midfielder Hamish Clark was carrying an injury against Corryong at Bullioh last weekend and could be rested if the Bulldogs back themselves in to make the grand final.

Bosley said Dan McCarthy’s win in the Upper Murray league medal had provided another boost.

“It was great for Dan and the club,” Bosley said.

“He’s had a really good year and will want to keep going for as long as possible.

“We’ve been lucky with everyone being fit at this time of the season.”

Matt Storey, Ash Greenhill and James Wood have been in good form for Border-Walwa and will need to be ready for Bullioh’s initial onslaught.

In the reserves, Corryong take on Federal, Tumbarumba do battle with the Demons in the under-16s and the Roos meet Cudgewa in the under-13s.