BARNAWARTHA utility Kyle McNamara has vowed to overcome the disappointment of not taking the direct route into the decider when his team clashes with Kiewa Sandy Creek in the preliminary final.
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The Tigers proved no match for raging flag favourite Thurgoona in the second semi-final after being outclassed and eventually losing by 31 points.
While bitterly disappointed, McNamara was keen not to dwell on the loss and rather focus on rebounding as quickly as possible.
"Things didn't go to plan and to be honest, Thurgoona were simply too good for us," McNamara said.
"But we have moved on quickly and there is not much we can do about it now.
"A few players were down on the day and there were a few sore bodies from playing Chiltern the previous week."
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The Tigers sorely missed the drive and penetrating kicking across half-back from Tom Anson who missed with a shoulder complaint.
Clever goalsneak Jarrod Williams also missed against the Bulldogs.
Both trained on Tuesday night and are expected to return to the line-up on Saturday.
McNamara said the Tigers would have to be a lot cleaner on the weekend with their disposal if they were to earn another shot at the Bulldogs.
"Our disposal let us down last week," he said.
"We probably missed a few opportunities in front of goal that we should of converted as well."
The sides have met twice this season for a thrilling draw before the Tigers notched a 26 point win at home in round 17.
McNamara expected to get the match-up on Hawks midfielder Jake Hicks who has the ability to sneak forward and hurt the opposition on the scoreboard.
The hard running midfielder returned to his home club this season after a two year stint with Upper Murray league club Corryong.
McNamara's brother, Matt, alongside former Tiger coach Danny DeMarte and Jarrod Williams also returned from the Demons this season.
All four are expected to play in the preliminary final.
Matt McNamara bobbed up with three goals in his first senior appearance since May after battling a hand complaint.
The three goals proved invaluable after Tiger coach Peter Cook was kept goalless at Sandy Creek for the first time during his career.
Kyle expected a savage response from his coach.
"It was a shock that he went goalless," he said.
"I know he wasn't too happy with himself after the match.
"He missed a few half-chances which he normally kicks.
"He probably put a bit too much pressure on himself.
"Hopefully he gets off the chain again like he did the previous week when he kicked seven."
