But a few Red Devils on their shoulder will be throwing everything in their way to put a stop to that.
Valley will play Kurow in the semifinal tomorrow in a final bid for both teams to make the Citizens Shield final.
Valley get a second bite at the North Otago final after they slipped 26-22 to Excelsior in last week’s playoff game.
Kurow, on the other hand, hung on to beat Athletic Marist 39-36 to make the semifinal.
It will be a big battle between the two country teams, who are never one to back down from a challenge — especially when a spot in the final is on the line.
Valley will be keen to defend their title, while Kurow will want to make a return to the final after missing out last year.
They met twice during the regular season. Valley won both encounters, 40-24 in round four and 24-22 in a thriller in round nine.
But finals rugby is always a different kettle of fish.
Valley’s strength has always been up front with the likes of Jake Greenslade, Sam Sturgess and Cameron Rowland.
There has been a bit of buzz around their two Japanese imports, hooker Ryusei Kato and midfielder Chihiro Matsuyama, who have joined from Toyota Verblitz.
A Kurow backline including Ben Nowell, Matt Faddes, Hayden Todd and Mitch Scott has attracted plenty of praise this season.
But their forwards, including Josh Reid, Angus Foster and Zachary Strange, pack a punch as well and are never afraid to roll up their sleeves.
Kurow are also putting on a bus to bring their large and loyal fanbase down from the Waitaki Valley.
Kick off is at the earlier time of 2pm at the Weston Domain.
The winner will play Excelsior, who get the week off after their major playoff win, in the final next weekend at Whitestone Contracting Stadium.
