The Demons will start as favourites after going through the home and away season undefeated and winning their second semi-final against the Saints by 22 goals.

But on grand final day anything can happen – and Atherton believes his young charges will be ready.

“We know we’re probably the rank underdogs – they’ve been the benchmark this season,” he said.

“The development of the players has been the number one priority, and now its about putting together the best performance on the day.

“We’ve had really good preparation and the girls are looking forward to going out there and trying to do their best.

“They need to be able to walk off the court and know they’ve given all they’ve got, regardless of the outcome.”

Atherton said his charges would take confidence from their nine-goal preliminary final victory against Stawell at the weekend. 

“If you’re going to play well in a grand final you want to have had tough games leading in,” he said.

“We’ve had to play every week and I think for junior kids that’s a fantastic way to head into the grand final.

“I’ve been really rapt with the consistency of the whole team.”

The Demons have won three of the four meetings between the sides comfortably.

The other match resulted in a draw in round nine.

Demons coach Tania Baker said her side had enjoyed a fantastic season.

“We’ve been undefeated and we’ve had a really good year,” she said.

“Georgie Carberry has led from the front as captain, Tamika Mentha has been really good in centre all year and Nekaela Butler has had a fantastic year too.

“They are a great bunch of girls and they’re looking forward to the weekend.”

Mentha won the association’s 13 and under best and fairest last month, while Horsham Saint Anesu Gororo, who finished third, could be another player to watch out for.