Defending champions West Taieri host Clutha Valley with both sides in a purple patch of form.
These two teams have held a monopoly on the Southern Region title over the past five years. Both have two wins since 2020, and one will add a third to their resume this weekend.
West Taieri finished second after the round robin phase and eared their spot in the big dance with a 46-12 walloping of Clutha last weekend in their semifinal.
The Pigs soaked up pressure in the first half before unleashing their power in the second half, largely thanks to an injection of power off the bench.
West Taieri’s forward pack has again been the backbone of the side this season with a solid set piece and unforgiving ball runners.
Their backline has shown plenty of ability to adapt and has also shown fantastic versatility, especially in the playmaking positions.
The introduction of utility back Eli Ellison this season has given some more freedom to the West Taieri backline as he can play numerous positions and shoulder plenty of responsibility while driving the side forward.
Clutha Valley finished fourth after the round robin and completed their season goal with a commanding 25-11 win over top-of-the-table Crescent at Kaitangata last weekend.
Valley dominated the semifinal and showed their fantastic depth as several of their usual players were absent.
Valley’s forward pack is not the biggest going around, but what it lacks for in size it makes up for in ticker and ability.
Their loose forward trio are extremely effective at the breakdown, and can recycle quick ball, as well as make crucial turnovers on defence.
The halves pairing of Jared Edwards and Thomas Johnson have taken Valley to a new level on attack. They raise the tempo of the match and keep opposition sides guessing.
Head-to-head, West Taieri have two wins over Valley this season, but when it comes to finals footy, anyone can win.
- By Francis Parker
