The A reserves defender was promoted to the attacking circle two weeks ago after playing-coach Emily Batt suffered a season-ending knee injury.

Despite a shaky start in the semi-final against East Warrnambool, the 28-year-old proved she had settled into her role when she netted 23 goals in the Tigers' preliminary final against South Rovers.

"I was nervous coming on unexpectedly in our first final," Collins said.

"Having played defence for A reserve all year, to step in as goal shooter was always going to be challenging.

"The team went on to lose by a goal, which put us back to being the underdogs."

The following week, Collins trained with the top side and slotted into the starting-seven seamlessly against the Lions.

"The Merrivale girls are a unified team and I'm really proud to play my part in that," she said.

"They're a strong and experienced group of netballers.

"On the weekend I was much more relaxed. We just focused on our game."

The former A reserve premiership player acknowledged the team had a tough job against East Warrnambool this weekend.

Replacing one of the best goalers in the competition is set to be equally as difficult.

"Emily is a 10-goal difference player," Collins said.

"They are big shoes to fill but I love a good challenge."

Collins is expecting to line up against Bombers goal keeper Lisa Anders after they met two weekends ago.

"It was a great match up, as it was all over the court," she said.

"They are a really good team with quality netballers. They've got height but we've got finals experience.

"Our team will have to have four focused, strong and committed quarters."

The Standard's sales manager will combine with her A reserve coach Danielle McInerney in the goal circle.

Collins predicted the showdown could spill into extra-time.

"It will be a physical, competitive game and I'm really looking forward to it" she said.