The Cats started well kicking the first goal of the afternoon before the Saints took control but inaccurate kicking had them up by only 3 goals at the first break.
In an inspired second quarter, the Cats booted 7 goals to 2 to take a 10 point lead and cause many to believe that an upset was on the cards at half time.
Saints' Coach, Dick Gleeson, then gave his troops a tongue lashing in the shed as he was disgusted with the second term effort. The roast from the coach and a quiet word from ex-Collingwood player, Kevin Pay, seemed to work as the Saints kicked the opening 2 goals of the quarter to snatch back the lead before the Cats got their noses further in front.
An increasing injury bench began to take its toll on the weary looking Cats as the Saints, inspired by the quick Alex Walker and the courage of Tony Halloran, once again took the lead and went into the last change leading by 33 points.
Joe Kimmince, who turned 18 on Friday, was inspirational in defense, restricting the TAFL leading goal scorer Stuart McAdam to one goal for the afternoon.
The big crowd saw the competition leaders kick four goals to two in the last stanza to seal a brave come-from-behind victory and book a place in the 2007 decider at Inverell.
Dave Kent and Darren Pithers sustained minor injuries and will be available for the grand final.
The Saints will now wait and see who their Grand Final opponent will be when the Cats take on the Tamworth Kangaroos.
We're hoping all former players and committee members of the Inverell Saints will be in attendance for the Club's biggest day on Saturday September 22.
By Gerry Taveira
Last Modified on 09/09/2007 13:45