Gopu and the Nhulunbuy Saints will continue their fierce rivalry in this weekend's Gove Australian Football League grand final.
The two sides have produced a string of memorable clashes in recent seasons.
In 2023, the Saints edged out Gopu in a gripping qualifying final before going on to end a long premiership drought, while last season, Gopu turned the tables in emphatic fashion, toppling the previously undefeated Saints in the premiership decider.
This season, Gopu holds the upper hand with a 3–1 head-to-head record, including a convincing second semi-final win a fortnight ago.
Nhulunbuy took the long road to the grand final but sent a strong message in last weekend's preliminary final win over Djarrak.
The Saints broke the game open in the third quarter to win 9.10 (64) to 5.13 (43), as Djarrak's inaccuracy in front of goal proved costly.
Gopu's premiership charge will be led by hard-running utilities Sam Christie and Xavier Dhurrkay, who are both hitting peak form at the right time of the year.
Four-time GAFL league medallist Isaac Burarrwanga will bring class and drive on the wing, while key forwards Israel Dhurrkay and last year's grand final hero Winston Yunupingu loom as major threats for the Saints' defence.
For Nhulunbuy, former VFL state representative Tom Goodwin shapes as a pivotal figure in the ruck and will look to give his midfield first use of the footy.
The reliable Bryce Penwill and in-form Stuart Guthrie – whose gritty on-ball work has been a highlight this season – will be central to their engine room.
Up forward, competition leading goalkicker Harry Kitschke and the towering Andy Knee offer plenty of scoring power, while defenders Shaun Gilbert and Dale Dhamarrandji have been rock-solid all year.
Saints coach Daniel Barwick told National Indigenous Times the midfield battle will be massive in determining the outcome of this contest.
"With our bigger bodies around the ball it will make it difficult for them to get clean clearances," Barwick said.
"We also have speed on the outside with Shaun and Lee Mununggurr.
"Our backline has been solid all year with experienced players who use the ball well, and they have the confidence they will get the job done again on Saturday.
"Our forwards are capable of hitting the scoreboard and are primed and ready to go."
Gopu will start favourites after outclassing the Saints with their pace and skill two weeks ago., but the smaller confines of Hindle Oval could swing the contest.
If the Saints can control the midfield, their tall forward line has the weapons to push Gopu all the way.
The game is set to commence on Saturday at 2PM.
