Clubs set for replay of 2017 epic

Royals colts will be aiming for a premiership hat-trick when they take on Albany in a replay of last season’s grand final on Sunday morning.

The two dominant teams in the colts competition will go head-to-head again following the drama-filled season decider in 2017, which was decided in the final minute.

The Sharks progressed to the grand final with a 16-point win over the Lions in the second semifinal, forcing the minor premiers to take the long way home to the final.

After overcoming Railways last Sunday in the preliminary final, the Lions will be looking to Poch Amores, Ben Watson, Nic Findlay, Shane Buss and leading goal-kicker Cameron Lazar to have a major influence.

Rod Gillies medallist Brock Anning, key forward Keiran Gowdie, exciting brothers Henry and Henrick Alforque and key midfielder Zainel Bin Busu will be the keys for the Sharks, having experienced plenty of league football this season.

Bin Busu is expected to return to the side after missing the second semifinal win as the Sharks aim for their first colts flag.

The two clubs will also battle it out in the 16s decider after the Sharks progressed in last Sunday’s preliminary final.

The Lions won an entertaining second semifinal in wet conditions a fortnight ago to earn the direct path and will be aiming for back-to-back flags, while the Sharks will be aiming for their fourth premiership. Reigning premiers Royals will take on Railways in the reserves grand final, with the Tigers buoyed by the encounter being on their home ground.

The Tigers have been forced to go the long way to the grand final, with their hopes potentially hinging on which players miss out on a league grand final spot with both senior grades in grand finals.