Echuca’s Mitch Wales took the captain’s mantle without leaders Will Monahan and Kane Morris.
After leading the charge to the Murray Bombers’ second Goulburn Valley League grand final in as many years, the 21-year-old now has the opportunity to clinch his second senior flag.
“It means a lot,” Wales said.
“Kyabram always come at you. They are a tough side, and it’s always a good battle.
“We used the ball more on the outside, relying on our leg speed and fitness.”
Those two qualities helped Echuca to a 16-point win, with Wales playing a vital role in the midfield for the Murray Bombers.
With 13 players under 25, a younger Echuca side will be striding out at Deakin Reserve in a fortnight against Seymour, Euroa, or Kyabram compared to its 2022 team.
“Us younger boys are pretty privileged,” Wales said.
“We’ve got a lot of older boys with a lot of experience. They help us every single week on Tuesday and Thursday nights.
“We’re glad to have them as role models. We link so well together.”
The midfielder looks forward to the two-week lay-off but is excited for another lead-in to the grand final.
“This build-up will be pretty exciting. There’s no other feeling like it,” Wales said.