Blues mentor John Cook said while the club was pleased to snare a top-three berth – securing a double chance – it was crucial the team lifted its intensity in  pursuit of a fourth premiership in six years.

Cook said the opportunity was exciting for the Blues’ young contingent of stars, who will line-up in the grand final re-match against Koroit.

“The playing group are by and large experienced in playing finals football, but the season rises to a whole new level with pressure and intensity now,” he said.

“It’s up to our guys to show the desire and determination to succeed. It will be a good experience for some of our younger guys that haven’t played as much at this time of year and the prize is a lot greater right now.

“We have the expectation the group will extend themselves to the next level. They’ve been privileged to have some strong leaders over the past 10 years – guys like Josh Walters –  but it’s time for the next generation of guys like your Travis Grahams, your Jackson Bells, and so on to be the leaders for your Thomas Ludemans and so on.”

Warrnambool suffered a 41-point loss to Koroit in last year’s decider. The clubs have won six of the past seven flags, three each.

“It’s a special time of the year and we certainly don’t want to shy away from the opportunity that presents to us,” Cook said.