The first ever football grand final clash between Hatherleigh and Robe has prompted the clubs’ civic leaders to show their true allegiances.


Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll is confident the Eagles will soar above the Roosters at Kongorong on Saturday but his Robe counterpart Lisa Ruffell is in furious disagreement.


Just like boxers at the weigh-in ahead of a prize fight, there has been plenty of tough talk and banter between the pair.


Mayor Noll is unfazed that Hatherleigh has lost its last three grand finals in 2017, 2022 and last season.


“Hatherleigh will apply intense pressure and Robe will not be able to withstand it,” he said.


Likewise, Mayor Ruffell is not worried that her seasiders have gone down in all three battles of the birds so far in 2024.


“We will be going hard and will make Hatherleigh pay for those three defeats,” she said.


“Robe is happy to be the underdogs.”


Neighbouring clubs Hatherleigh and Robe have competed in the Mid South Eastern Football League for almost 60 years since 1966 but have never before faced off in the big dance.


Meanwhile, the A Grade netball will be an all-Wattle Range affair with defending champions Kalangadoo taking on neighbours Glencoe.