YOU would forgive Jindabyne Bushpigs coach Matt Tripet for only focussing on his side's on-field performance this Saturday as the club chases a history making three straight premierships.

A tough semi-final encounter against Braidwood, saw the Bushpigs produce one of their finest defensive efforts to hold the visitors out in the dying stages of the must-win clash.

The minor premiers secured a 19-14 win, and booked a home grand final.

With all eyes on this weekend's premiership decider, Tripet and his chargers are well aware of the important role the club has in the Jindabyne community.

"We have had a core value in our group this year - be a part of something bigger than self," Tripet said.

"We have grasped that Jindabyne Rugby Club is a community, represented by many before us and will be represented by many after us.

"There is a huge amount of care in this group, they have really cared about their performances, how they prepare and they care a great deal about our Jindabyne community."

Last year's premiership win came at home for the Bushpigs who defeated Crookwell in a high-scoring encounter 50-33. Many Bushpigs supporters remarked the crowd was the largest seen at John Connors Oval.

Tripet is hoping this year's grand final surpasses 2023.

"It’s really exciting for the group and I would be lying to suggest that there wasn’t that that grand final excitement," Tripet said.

"But with that excitement is a great sense of privilege with this opportunity; and that will be our grounding focus as we represent our town, families and friends on this very special occasion for the club.

"To our Jindabyne and wider community, please put on your Irish green and get along to John Connors Oval and be a part of something bigger than all of us."

The Bushpigs have been undefeated this season but that nearly ended at the hands of Braidwood.

Braidwood had multiple phases on the Bushpigs' tryline in the final few minutes, with a try most likely producing an upset win. As the final siren sounded, the Bushpigs resolve shone through, repelling a Braidwood maul to win through to the another grand final.

The Bushpigs face Bungendore for the chance to etch their name into the South Coast/Monaro rugby union history books in winning a third title in this division.

The Bushpigs first premiership in this run came in 2022 when they overcame Bungendore at home.

Tripet expects a tough encounter this time around.

“The Bungendore Mudchooks will be very ready for us and will certainly come into the game with some great support from their locals travelling for the game,” Tripet said.

“We have shared a very long, hard fought history between our teams, with another game to be added to the rivalry later this week.

“But our focus will remain on us, our preparation, our community and the man who stands next to us, not in front of us.”

Kick-off at 2.30pm at John Connors Oval.

More coverage on the Bushpigs season and grand final on pages 42 and 43.