AFL grand finals see Mount Isa Buffs battle Lake Nash Bats

The team defeated Rovers last week 100-90 to make it through to the finals.

Buffs captain Evan Magnus said the Rovers were a worthy opponent in the AFL semi-finals.

“Rovers really stepped up, they played finals the way finals should be played,” Magnus said.

“They gave us a bit of a scare, they were within three points at one stage with about five minutes to go.”

Standout Buffs players included Sean Bloomfield, Harley Giles, Jordan Bax, and Darius O’Keefe.

"They were definite standouts, especially Darius, he pretty much dominated the whole game last week,” Magnus said.

Team mates came away unscathed, with no injuries reported.

As players rearrange their shift work to fit around the finals this weekend, their captain says Buffs are in fine shape for the big game.

“We’ve probably got our strongest team this week that we’ve had in a long time,” Magnus said.

“We’re feeling confident and we’re all very excited, this is probably the best opportunity the Buffs has had in a very long time – like years and years.”

This will be the second time Buffs face off with their Northern Territory counterparts in as many weeks, after the Giants defeated Buffs 67 – 90 on August 19.

Magnus said the team is confident, but will be looking to gain control from the speedy Bats early.

“They play differently to all the other teams. They’re a lot quicker and more skilled,” Magnus said.

“We have to try to control the game a bit more and slow down, that’s what has got us the last couple of times. You can’t get away with much, really.”

Buffs coach, Alistair Baker, has years of experience playing for Buffs himself, and knows the team well.

In terms of a game plan, Magnus said the Buffs will stick to the basics. 

“We don’t look to change too much, what we’re doing is working well for us right now,” Magnus said.

Mount Isa Buffs AFL fans can turn out at 2pm this Saturday to support their local team take on the NT.

“Hopefully it’s not just Lake Nash supporters,” Evan laughed.