Figtree coach Will Ryan is wary of the backlash as the unbeaten AFL South Coast leaders prepare for Kiama and the Lions on the run to finals.
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Having spent so long chasing their powerhouse rivals, the narrative has been flipped this season, as the Kangaroos march to 6-0 in a Covid-19 crisis shortened season.
Along the way, they've smashed Kiama by 98 points and premiers the Lions by 86 points, who beat the Kangaroos in last year's grand final, to start the season.
Facing the Power at Figtree Oval on Saturday, Ryan knows the Roos have to rise to the occasion.
"We know if we want to win a grand final we've got to beat everyone," he said.
"So it starts now, with two games and the bye, the finals approach starts now.
"Any Rod Richards coached team is going to be physical and up for the contest, we know that, we have to be ready for it.
"Last year still burns for us, we know we were close, so we'll just keep fine-tuning things for the finals."
It's a crucial time for the Lions, whose finals hopes potentially hang in the balance against resurgent Wollongong Bulldogs.
The Lions meet the Dogs, Kiama and Figtree in the remaining rounds, while Northern Districts - threatening their top four spot - have Shellharbour, Bomaderry and the Bulldogs left to play.
In the women's competition, third placed Kiama Power prepare for their biggest test yet against unbeaten Wollongong Saints at Figtree Oval at 12.30pm.
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Tim Barrow
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
