Shepparton Bulls are headed back to the big stage.

The Bulls will be well-represented in Rugby Victoria’s Championship division grand finals after the senior XV pulled off a thrilling 28-24 win over Brimbank Bucks in the weekend’s semi-final.

Shepparton had five try-scorers with Ratu Vereimi Rokolaverua, Setareki Rokoduna, Josua Tikoduadua, Etuate Neikaci, and Ben Pele all crossing the line for the Bulls.

It sets up a unique opportunity for Shepparton to lift its third cup in as many seasons when facing Southern Districts at Box Hill Rugby Club this Saturday at 2pm.

The semi-final was Shepparton’s first game in a month and a half due to a combination of forfeits, byes, and other associated breaks.

“I think that it was really tough for us because we haven’t played a game for six weeks,” Bulls’ coach Morinae Silaga said.

“We just had to stick together and play as a team.”

The Bulls’ front rowers and the leadership qualities of skipper Samuela Waqarerevaki drew the praise of Silaga, who said his group is excited to once again be contending for the crown.

It won’t be an easy challenge against a Southern Districts side, which has defeated the Bulls on all three occasions this season.

“It’s the same feeling, we have to do what we can and do our best,” he said.

“We've been there twice now, so everyone is excited.”

The Bulls’ reserves are already assured of a grand final spot as a result of finishing on top of the ladder, facing Brimbank in the 12pm game.

Eagles book a spot in women’s league grand final

Scores level and extra-time needed? It was finals at its best for the Shepparton Eagles women.

The Eagles needed a golden point tie-breaker to separate themselves from the Corowa Cougars in the weekend’s semi-final, making their way through to a historic Goulburn Murray Women’s League decider after an enthralling 22-18 victory.

Fofoa Tulimafono crossed the line for all four Eagles’ tries in regulation, while Deborah Fili was on song by foot with three conversions.

The result marks the women’s squad’s first appearance in a grand final since the clubs' rebirth last year, and they’ll meet the winner of Corowa and Wangaratta in the decider at Glenrowan Reserve on Sunday, September 7 at 12pm.

Meanwhile, the senior men will take the long way to a potential back-to-back title after faltering to Tumbarumba 12-34 in Corowa.

The Eagles will face Corowa for the final spot in the grand final this week.

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Friday, 10th March 2023

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