Loss a blessing for Raiders

The Raiders were on a three-game winning streak that included a win over Lavington, when the Pigeons stopped them in their tracks in the final round of the season.

Grayson said the wake-up call couldn’t have come at a better time heading into Saturday’s qualifying final with Lavington at Bunton Park.

“I think a few of the boys have woken up after last week’s loss,” Grayson said.

“We’re really confident tomorrow, we’ve got a strong side in. 

“I actually think it’s going to be a really close game.”

Grayson is confident two big names will be fit enough to play against the Panthers.

Jydon Neagle has been named as an emergency, while star forward Jake Goldsmith has been named in the side, despite battling a corked thigh.

“We’re pretty confident he will play,” Grayson said of Goldsmith.

“We are not going to play any player that’s not 100 per cent.

“He’s very important to our side.”

Lavington and Raiders have shared the spoils this season.

Justin Koschitzke booted five to lead the Panthers to a 33-point win in round six, while Ross Tungatalum snagged five in round 15 as the Raiders stormed home to win by 25 points.

Grayson is one of several key players to re-commit to the Raiders for next season.

He's likely to feature strongly in the club’s best-and-fairest award after an outstanding season across half back and in the midfield.

“I’ve really enjoyed the year and hopefully we can take it all the way,” the 23-year-old said.

“It’s a really good competition.

“It’s more physical than the footy I’ve played in before and it’s very skillful.”

Saturday will be the Raiders’ first final since 2012.

That year they finished fifth under Corey Lambert.

But they were knocked out in the elimination final by the Panthers, losing by 27 points at the John Flower Oval.

Amazingly, only captain Jack Di Mizio, key defender Dean Heta and tough nut Brock Knights remain from that side.