And while Wollongong United prepare for their third grand final since 2015, Woonona are eyeing off their first ever IPL premiership.

On paper, it is hard to split the two teams. The Sharks sealed the premiers trophy by just one goal from United, while their two clashes in 2020 have been decided 1-0 - with United taking the honours both times.

But those records mean nothing as the Sharks and United prepare for Sunday afternoon's grand final at Ian McLennan Park.

United midfielder Billy Tsovolos has been in this position before. And as he soaks up the big week, the veteran also refuses to underestimate their opponent.

"I think everyone's really excited and looking forward to it. It's always good, grand final week. It's a massive occasion especially down here in the Illawarra," he said.

"We've just got to try remain consistent, we've sort of set the standards for ourselves throughout the season. I think if we just go and play to the best of our abilities, we're going to have a good chance on the weekend. Woonona's obviously a top team and they're so hard to break down. We've just got to stick to our guns.

"Anything could happen on Sunday. Both teams have solid defences and have kept clean sheets, but both teams have showed they're capable of scoring two, three, four goals on their day so it's just a matter of who shows up. I think if one team comes out firing, or both teams come out firing, they're could be a few goals for sure."

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Conversely, the majority of Woonona's squad are preparing for their inaugural senior grand final. Among that group is 20-year-old Taro Regan Williams.

After moving from Bulli, he was originally signed to the Sharks' second grade side for 2020. However, a sudden exodus of players due to the impact of COVID-19 led to Regan Williams getting a promotion in the pre season.

He hasn't looked back, playing a key role in a defensive unit that's conceded just nine goals in 13 games.

In a whirlwind year, the youngster hopes that Woonona can finish on a high note.

"We're absolutely stoked, everyone's been buzzing this week so far and looking forward to it," he said.

"We do know what to expect from them, obviously we've played them twice this season. They got up on us both occasions but we know they're a tough side and they like to play quick football, and try knock it around on the deck. So we're prepared for what they have."

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Defence will again be top of mind for Regan Williams heading into Sunday's clash.

However, he said the key to their defensive success had been a buy in by the whole team - plus the reliability of star goalkeeper Jair Fernandez.

"We can't believe how well it has gone so far. It's been great for me personally and for the team as well. The defensive structure and the success we've had defensively is down to every player in the squad, it's one of those things that we do really well as a side," he said.

"It gives you so much confidence as a defender when you have a top class defender behind you. And it's great having some experience beside me in Cam Besgrove, he's played in the league for quite a few years. He's been so supportive, as have all the boys which has made such a difference for me."