When the two teams met in round four, the Panthers were lacklustre in the forward line and managed only eight scoring shots – six of which were behinds. 

The Southern Roos dominated that game and reached triple digits by the third quarter. 

Since then the Panthers have improved dramatically and assistant coach Zack May said his side was eager for any challenge. 

Southern Roos coach Paul Cleaver said his team looked forward to the challenge of playing its structures and getting player roles down pat. 

“(Rupanyup) has been playing some good footy and has improved as the year has gone on,” he said. 

“They knocked off Kalkee which was good for them. They are a side out of the top six that have been improving.” 

Cleaver said his back-line unit had been improving as the season progressed. 

“They have provided us with stability and consistency this year,” he said. 

“They’ve been a strong part of our season – they’re the key.” 

Hugh Douglas and Hamish Ellis will return for the Southern Roos.