GISBORNE 17-and-under coach Maddy Stewart views her side's forthcoming trio of matches against top four opponents as the perfect preparation for finals.
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The undefeated Bulldogs lead the region's premier junior competition after 15 rounds with 12 wins and a draw, but face Eaglehawk (fourth), Sandhurst (third) and Golden Square (second) in the run to the finals.
Stewart, who led the Bulldogs to a grand final berth against Sandhurst last season, said her side would welcome the challenge.
"It's a massive run home, but I think it's the best thing we could have," she said.
"Apart from having the draw with South Bendigo, who are up there as the next team as well, they are the three closest games we have had this year and all are very strong sides."
"We looked at that early on in the season and thought it would be a great run into finals and that is how it's panned out.
"We will have to work hard to beat them all, but the girls and I are excited to have that tough run coming into finals."
Gisborne easily accounted for Maryborough last round 76-21, a week after sharing the points with South Bendigo with a 50-50 draw.
The Bulldogs hold wins over all three remaining opponents this season; by 27 goals against Eaglehawk, 14 goals over Sandhurst, and six against Golden Square.
Stewart declared the premiership race wide open among all five finals contenders.
"It's wonderful there are such strong, young players coming through, which is not only great for the development of individual clubs, but the league as well," she said.
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