With a grand final berth now secured, it will likely take a mighty effort from either Bowral or University to prevent the Wombats from claiming back-to-back titles in a fortnight’s time.

Avondale coach Murray McDonald acknowledged the Wombats will head into the grand final as heavy favourites, but warned his side not to get complacent. 

“I think it is our competition to lose,” McDonald said. “But who knows, the top four’s all pretty strong. Anyone can beat you on the day, it’s never won until the 80th minute.”

“It took us 80 minutes to get the win today [Saturday], it was a big grind all day. We’re really happy with the result, Bowral turned up today, their backs were really slick, but we ground it out.”​

Despite sending a home semi-final to Bowral, Avondale didn’t miss a beat from the opening whistle.

The Wombats laid the platform for victory with a commanding first half performance that saw the side take a 26-11 lead into the break.

Bowral had golden opportunities to score either side of half-time, but the Avondale defence held firm.

Ultimately the Wombats forward dominance wore down the Blacks, with Avondale crossing for three tries in the final 20 minutes of the match.

“The forwards were outstanding. If we didn’t have them today we would have struggled. We spoke about it, the forwards had to lay the platform for the backs and they did the job today.”