The Magpies goal defence, who returned this season after having a baby, has had a tough run against the Saints so far this year, but is fit and firing heading into Saturday’s Hampden open grade grand final.

“The first time we played them was my first game (since 2015),” Richardson said.

“The second time was my first game back after pneumonia.

“So I feel I have more to bring.”

Richardson, who crossed to the Magpies ahead of the 2015 season, will line up for her second top-grade grand final for the Leura Oval-based club on Saturday.

Two years ago, she held down goal keeper, teaming with seasoned Camperdown defender Chelsea Castles, who played goal defence.

She watched on from the sidelines as the Magpies went down to Port Fairy in the 2016 decider, but presented the Peta Richardson medal for best on court with daughter Willow – now 18 months old – as the medal is named after Willow’s grandmother.

In 2017, Richardson has made the move to goal defence, with Magpies stalwart Emma Wright – who missed most of 2015 with a shoulder injury, but was named on the bench in the decider – returning to goal keeper.

“This year, I’ve gone to goal defence, which has been a bit of a challenge in terms of fitness,” Richardson said.

“But I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve had a wondeful year. There’s a few different girls (from season 2015).

“I hadn’y played previously with Emma Wright or Leah (Sinnott) – I played a little bit with Caity Hall.”

The Magpies have brought a host of junior players through its side this year – in part forced through the loss of injured veterans Tracey Baker and Emily Stephens – but the young players have breathed new life into a team which finds itself in the decider for the third year running, despite a considerable turnover of players.

Bakers’ daughters Chelsea and Krystal have been racking up appearances for the Magpies, while Hall and Henzen have also become regulars.

Recruit Ashlea Spokes has also played a role, while sisters Jaymie and Emily Finch – daughters of second-year coach Peter Finch – have had a few seasons together in goals, but are still on the younger side themselves.

Richardson said she was relishing the chance to play alongside Wright, who won the medal for best on court in the Magpies’ A reserve premiership win in 2005.

“I’ve really enjoyed playing with Em,” she said. “I feel that every game we’re just gelling together better and knowing what to expect from each other. It’s just working really well, which is fantastic.”