The Roos finished second this season and aren’t going to stand for anything less than that this season according to coach Tony Bishop, although Inverell are fighting for an eighth straight grand final appearance after beating Narrabri in the minor semi-final last week.

“We have been third every season since 2011,” Bishop said.

That was the last time a Tamworth side won the competition, with New England winning the three since, and awaiting the winner of this game as they attempt a fourth next week.

“We are the only team that has beaten the Nomads in four years,” Bishop said of a round one defeat this season.

“We are not that far away from that form.” 

“Third isn’t good enough this year and we have a good team list that is hungry to change that.” 

Bishop believes  the Roos are better against a physical side like the Saints than they are against the silky skills and pace of the Nomads.

“We always rise to the occasion for the Saints,” Bishop said. “We have a two-all finals record against them and there is no love lost.” 

Last week the coach struggled to stand anybody out in the semi loss.

“I think almost every player could have given me at least five per cent more. 

“That adds up.” 

Bishop did make special mention of usual centre half back Brad Rees, who was playing forward for the match.

“He was sensational and was getting his hands on plenty of ball.

“Brock Quinn also put in a fair bit of effort but the rest have more to give.” 

A big home crowd should bolster the Roos’ resolve to complete their mission when the preliminary final kicks off at No 1 Oval at 2pm.

“The home ground is a massive advantage,” Bishop said.

“We will be very disappointed if we finish third again.”