The Saints have not won a grand final since entering the Wimmera league in 1993, but have a great opportunity to end their premiership drought.

A 23-point semi-final victory against the Demons a fortnight ago – their third consecutive win against their cross-town rival – has given the Saints plenty of time to prepare.

First-year coach Shayne Breuer said the fortnight’s break had been great for the Saints’ preparation.

“In regards to getting blokes fit and getting over niggling injuries, the two-week break has been really good for us,” he said.

“The boys are right and ready to go and we just want to get out there and play the game.”

Breuer said North Ballarat Rebels Jacob O’Beirne and James Richards would be in contention, as would Bernie Ward after overcoming a rib injury.

He said Nathan Clough would be a welcome boost to the Saints’ midfield stocks.

“Nathan has been fantastic for us all year. He has served his penalty and he’ll be very handy to have back in,” he said. 

The Saints will have to overcome a Demons side with a proven ability to win big matches.

The Demons are chasing their 11th premiership in 12 years.

Co-coach Brad Hartigan said the side’s preparation had gone to plan.

“We’ve had a good week on the track. The boys are looking really fresh and it is exciting to be in another grand final,” he said.

Hartigan said injuries suffered on the weekend by himself, Nick Pekin and Billy Lloyd were a non-issue.

“We’ve done the right things post-game and we’ll be cherry ripe,” he said.

Hartigan said shutting down the Saints’ plethora of runners would be pivotal.

“We’ve got to win the ball on the inside and get it out to our runners and not let them play the game style they want to play,” he said.

Versatile Demons ruckmen Jordyn Burke and Sean Christopher will be vital against Saints workhorse Michael Rowe.

Whoever can give their midfielders first use of the ball will go a long way towards winning.

Pat Knott and Sam Clyne’s drive through the middle will be crucial for the Saints, as will the experience of Garry Hallam off half-back.

Full-forward Gavin Kelm has kicked 11 goals in the Saints’ two finals, but the Saints will look to spread the load up forward through the likes of Jacob Cooke-Harrison and Leslie Butler.

Breuer said at the other end, the Saints could not afford to let the Demons build momentum.

“They come at you hard and stemming that tide is the hard thing,” he said.

“We can’t go into our shell – we have to be pro-active and take them on.”

Running defenders Nathan Kelly and Joel Geue have been influential in the Demons’ finals campaign to date and will look to continue their form, while Burke, Christopher and Pekin are all dangerous around goal.

Hartigan hopes the side’s leaders can continue to lead the way.

“We’ve been in grand finals before so hopefully we can show the young kids what it is about. Our experience will help,” he said.

Breuer hopes Saints turn their hard work into a premiership triumph.

“You look at Horsham and it has been there 10 out of the past 11 years and won every time,'' he said.

"The Saints have been there six times in the past 20 years and are yet to register one on the board.

“For a club that has been very successful without achieving the ultimate success, it would be great recognition.”