In a unique coincidence, Newton left the ground in the third term at the same time he did against Wodonga on July 29.

It was the boom forward’s first game since then.

“It is (the same spot), definitely, I’ll do anything to get it right,” he said.

“I’ve got some good people, some good contacts, so will probably head to Melbourne asap.”

Hamstrings are generally considered three-week injuries, with the grand final final three weeks away.

“It is devastating, but it’s all about the team and to see the way the team performed today, I’m really proud of the boys,” Newton said.

As good as Wangaratta was, it’s hard to believe it would be a realistic hope of toppling red-hot favourites Albury without Newton.

However, in their first finals match in six years, the Pies were superb against the Pigeons, who now own the second-longest finals streak at 12.

Wangaratta Rovers played 14 straight campaigns, from 1969.

Meanwhile, interleague defender Michael Bordignon showed tremendous courage to battle on after he crashed into Yarrawonga big man Marcus McMillan at the six-minute mark of the final quarter.

“I just copped a cork to the hip, but I should be right though,” he said.

Bordignon spent some time on his knees, but jumped back to his feet and set up a goal for Daine Porter.