The Bombers are set to face a tough St. Mary’s outfit boasting names such as the Clark brothers (Xavier and Raphael) and Shannon Rioli.
They will also be without captain Shane Tipuamantamirri after he was suspended for rough conduct during the club’s preliminary final victory and leading goal kicker Gerard Cunningham who will also miss due to suspension.
Coach Leigh Crossman is confident the team has depth to cover the loss of two key players.
“It gives someone else an opportunity to step up and our depth is one of our greatest strengths,” Crossman said.
“We probably have 40-50 guys capable of playing good NTFL football so it is disappointing to lose those guys but someone else will step up.”
“It is about sharing the load and giving some other guys some opportunity as well.”
Crossman is excited about the challenge facing his side as they attempt to win back-to-back titles.
“It is pleasing to have made it through and a big thrill to have made it through,” he said.
“We are really looking forward to it and almost every second person I talk to is going along so it is a really good thing for the community.”
“It has been huge for the community, you come back here on a Saturday night and everyone is out in the street screaming and celebrating that we are into the Grand Final,” he said.
“All the kids are really excited. Everyone stops you in the street and wishes you good luck.”
Essendon Football Club wishes the Tiwi Bombers all the best in their quest for back-to-back premierships.
