A NEAR perfect finals dress rehearsal has given Bright a massive boost of confidence ahead of their fifth consecutive post-season appearance.

In a rain-affected contest at Milawa filled with momentum swings in the opening three quarters, the Mountain Men kicked six unanswered goals in the last term to run away with a 41-point victory in the final round of the regular season – 13.13 (91) to 7.8 (50).

James Love, Riley Bacon and Rod Arguello relished the slippery conditions to help Bright win the midfield battle, Reuben Jamieson was impenetrable down back and Cooper Thomason kicked five goals to seal the league leading goalkicking award by one goal.

Pat Bren added three goals from the wing and Arguello was damaging forward of centre with two classy majors.

Despite having no bearing on the eventual ladder positions of both sides, senior coach Paul Harrison was thrilled with his side’s effort and what the win may mean moving forward.

“I thought we threatened most the day to break it open but just struggled at times to be clean below our knees,” Harrison said.

“Having a good win going into finals gives us some great confidence especially against a team we may face in a couple of weeks.”

History will have to repeat itself in 2024 if Bright wish to make it to the big dance, who last season also finished in third position before their memorable run to the grand final.

King Valley snuck into the top six courtesy of a last gasp win against fellow finals aspirant North Wangaratta, and the Roos from Whitfield are not a team to take lightly, according to Harrison.

“I think they will throw everything at us – they’re a team you can’t let build into a game as they do grow in confidence,” Harrison added.

“I think if we can get a good start and make them defend hard we can get the win.”

In the earlier reserves game, Bright were humbled by fellow contender Milawa to the tune of 59 points, which now leaves them fighting for survival in this weekend's elimination final against North Wangaratta.

Both teams will play on Saturday at North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve for the right to reach the semi-final next Sunday.

The reserves match will kick off at 12pm, while the seniors will start at 2pm.