RUTHERGLEN produced its second escape act in as many weeks by charging home to defeat rivals Wahgunyah by 21 points in the first semi-final at Sandy Creek on Sunday.
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After trailing by 29 points at half-time, the Cats motored home to set up a preliminary final showdown with Kiewa-Sandy Creek.
They fought back from a 17-point deficit early in the final quarter to overpower Mitta United in the elimination final last weekend.
Coach Damien Wilson said he never doubted his side’s ability to respond.
“The scoreboard was never really a big concern for me because I knew the boys would keep coming,” Wilson said.
“They just willed themselves.
“It was a fantastic effort and we’re just looking forward to next weekend.
“To win with only one fit player on the bench in the second-half showed a lot of resilience.”
Rutherglen’s fight-back was even more creditable considering it lost defender Pat Murtagh early in the opening quarter following a head knock.
Key forward John Spencer was forced off with a knee injury in the second term.
The dangerous Tyson Neander came alive in the forward line after half-time to finish with five goals while Damien and Cameron Wilson started to take control of the midfield.
Chris Oats, Jared Farwell and James Cooper also impressed for the victors.
Wahgunyah made all the running early with Nick Brockley proving a handful in attack with five majors.
Shannon Schulz, Angus Lingham, Dean Druce and Josh Clark also played well for the Lions.
“One of the best things for us was that we had everyone contributing,” Wilson said.
“It was a good, even spread.
“We have a few injuries, but we will see how they come up for next week.”
The Lions are yet to win a final in the TDFL.
In a blast from the past, officials were forced to use a cow bell at the changes after a power pole fuse blew during the reserve grade match between Wahgunyah and Rutherglen.
