With Bullioh, Cudgewa and Tumbarumba the only three clubs fielding reserves sides, it was proposed that the winless Magpies seniors play reserves so the Roos have an opponent.

The proposal was approved at an Upper Murray league delegates meeting last month.

Tumbarumba president, Mont Waters, who made the proposal, said the Magpies had since gone cold on the idea.

"Basically Border-Walwa weren't interested," Waters said.

"They thought they had nothing to gain.

"Their season has been tough enough and the sooner it is over the happier they'll be.

"It was just an idea, it didn't come off and I'm not going to lose any sleep over it."

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Tumbarumba's only victory in the reserves this season was in the opening round against Corryong before the Demons withdrew for the remainder of the year.

Despite having only won one match, the Roos will face the loser out of next week's second semi-final between Bullioh and Cudgewa in the preliminary final.

Waters said he was an advocate for the UMFL to press ahead next season with just one grade of football with the league set to scrap its reserves and junior competitions.

"I think it is the best result for the league under the circumstances," he said.

"There is examples of other leagues where one grade of footy works. It is not ideal but I think the alternative is far worse than not going ahead."

Waters said he was opposed to the option of a merged club from the Upper Murray being formed and competing in the neighbouring Tallangatta and District league.

"There is more than 350 registered netballers and if the league merged, all of a sudden you are back to 60," he said.

"There would be a lot of travel involved and what time would families have to leave home in the morning if they had kids in the juniors?

"I don't think there is enough support within the league for a merger.

"It's going to cost a lot more money and resources to be in the Tallangatta league.

"While everyone is happy to support their own club, will they be happy to support a combined club?"