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Haisman Shield final | Mooroopna out to clinch back-to-back titles on Saturday

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Grand final-ready: Mooroopna coach Luke Zanchetta talks to his team during the season. Photo by Aydin Payne

Mooroopna will be out to claim back-to-back Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield titles this weekend.

The reigning premier faces Kyabram at Deakin Reserve on Saturday in what shapes up to be another enthralling decider.

Kyabram — in search of its maiden Haisman Shield success — boasts arguably the strongest batting line-up in the A-grade competition.

But the prowess of the Redbacks will come up against a class Mooroopna contingent.

Mooroopna’s mentor Luke Zanchetta, fresh off claiming the leading wicket-taker award with 28 scalps this season, leads a potent bowling attack.

The last time these two outfits met Mooroopna triumphed by 22 runs, thanks to a bit of magic from Jake Wright (5-18).

A stunning 6-23 collapse left the Redbacks in disarray and Zanchetta said he hoped for a repeat.

“If you look at the two sides you see they both have players who have the ability to stand up and take the game away from you,” the Mooroopna coach said.

“They are obviously a very strong batting line-up and I think the key will be early wickets.

“Hopefully we can take those early wickets, dry up runs and put the pressure on them.”

Mooroopna’s path to this year’s grand final consists of two impressive performances.

A thrilling triumph over Nagambie in week one of the finals was followed by a convincing effort over minor premier Waaia.

Zanchetta heaped praise on his side’s top order and spoke glowingly of strike bowler Will Dundon — who collected his season-best figures of 4-14.

“I was really impressed with how the top order stepped up last week,” Zanchetta said.

“To put on 180 against them (Waaia), something that hasn’t been done all season, was something I am really proud about. Jac (Smith-Williams) and Paul (McDonald) both batted really well together.

“Will (Dundon) got the reward last week after being pretty unlucky all season. You can bowl well and still be unlucky and being a young fella, I thought it was a testament of his character. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.”

In good form: Mooroopna pace bowler Will Dundon. Photo by Rodney Braithwaite

Mooroopna’s A-grade outfit won’t be the only side to take to the field this weekend.

After all five grades reached the finals, A, B and D grade have reached the decider in their respective competition.

Zanchetta said he was proud of where the club was placed.

“We’ve spoken about it as a club and how it’s a massive achievement to have all five sides reach the finals and then to have three make it to the grand final,” he said.

“I’m very proud as a coach, the committee have done an amazing job as well and have tried very hard to get the club into this position.

“I think the most pleasing aspect for me is how everyone is understanding of the decisions that get made and are on board with what we are trying achieve.”

HAISMAN SHIELD FINAL

Mooroopna v Kyabram

Start time: 1pm

Where: Deakin Reserve