The Redlegs showed how far they had come in a year by leading the Magpies through the first half.

Consider this, at the corresponding clash in August 2009, Tanunda annihilated Freeling by 199 points.

Everyone is talking about the Greenwood influence at Freeling, even though the coach missed making his presence felt against his old teammates on the field thanks to busted ribs.

The first-year coach has ticked all the boxes - he has recruited well, created solid team structures and has still maintained his own form on the field (until injury held him back).

Greenwood has turned around a team that went without a win in 2009 and was regularly on the end of a hiding, to a side that was rarely on the end of a blowout. In fact, the Redlegs were only beaten by 10 goals or more in three matches this year.

If the improvement continues, Freeling could be a realistic finals’ challenger next year.

The two teams now have completely different things to focus on. The Redlegs will turn their attention to the frivolity of a footy trip, while the Magpies will aim to increase the tempo for finals.

Tanunda has completed an undefeated minor round which, even considering their brilliant form of recent seasons, is a rare feat.

The reigning back-to-back premier now turn their attention to a finals’ campaign and the sight of a fit Alex Kennedy making an impact will have pleased both the coaching staff and the supporters.

Big AK was worked back (after a month out) with stints further up the ground than we have been used to in recent times but he chipped in with two goals as Tanunda shared the goal-scoring duties among eight individuals.

The ability to stand up when challenged was also a feature for the Magpies. And when the workrate was required in the third quarter there were plenty to share the load.

Ruckman Luke Wells led the way. He has finished the season in the same ominous form that had him selected in the State Country team, and he will be a vital cog in September. Ryan Bignell, Ben Newberry and Matt Prior were among the more influential performers.

For the finals, Tanunda’s depth looks to be their advantage. Because there are so many players pushing for A-grade selection it will increase the tempo at training and give both senior sides a lift. They will be champing at the bit by the time they line up to tackle Barossa District in the second semi-final on September 4.