The Tigers were almost guaranteed to join the final six heading into the weekend, holding a one-win and significant percentage advantage over Stanhope, but they confirmed their status in style with the demolition of Undera at Undera Recreation Reserve.
Rushworth ran up the score in the contest, its defence particularly stifling in the first half, where it kept the Lions to 1.1 (7) while piling on 12.7 (79) of its own.
Undera showed slightly more offensive force in the second half, kicking four goals, but the Tigers more than doubled their own halftime score, slotting a further 14 goals to romp to a 26.10 (166) to 5.5 (35) win.
There were several strong efforts on the Rushworth scorecard, led by Riley Edwards’ six goals.
Ryan Beale added four, while Dylan Arnold, Nico McKinley and Paul Vavlitis kicked three each.
For Undera, only Jack Milar found the goal multiple times, kicking two.
Rushworth finishes the season in sixth with a record of 9-7, meaning a tough elimination final against Shepparton East (13-3) is the assignment this Saturday.
Luck of the draw has given the Tigers home ground advantage for the contest, with all third vs sixth contests to be held at Ironbark Stadium.
Rushworth’s only previous meeting with the Eagles saw East prevail 9.12 (66) to 5.6 (36) on June 28.
The elimination final will begin at 2.30pm on Saturday.
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