Eaton Boomers and South Bunbury will square off in a SWFL showstopper on Sunday afternoon at Glen Huon Reserve, as both finals contenders aim to bounce back from frustrating losses last weekend.

While the Tigers were soundly beaten by 66 points against the Harvey Bulls at Hands Oval in one of the upsets of the season, the Boomers fell five points short against reigning premiers Augusta-Margaret River at Gloucester Park — with Hawks goalsneek Harry Taylor booting a goal after the final siren.

However, Boomers coach Darren Rigby believes these two results could add an extra dimension to Sunday’s game.

“It has probably put a little more fire into each side,” he said. “We went down marginally after a couple of quick kicks into the Hawks’ forward line and they get a goal after the siren had gone — while Burgo (Julian Burgess) will obviously be working with his group because of the scoreline in their game.

“Both of us had different scorelines, but probably both of us have reason to be motivated and take a win.”

There is also a significant personal storyline in this game between Rigby and Tigers coach Burgess, who have spent the majority of their football lives together on and off the field.

Prior to his successful coaching career, Rigby played 100 games for Perth in the WAFL, along with holding various football management positions with the club.

During his days at Lathlain Park, Rigby played alongside Burgess, who was highly regarded as a speedy player with tremendous skills. The friendship formed as teammates lasts to this day, with both men taking a keen interest in how the other is going.

However despite their friendship, and Burgess likely to return after being out of action due to COVID-19, Rigby will be doing all he can to ensure the Boomers pocket all four premiership points.

“It definitely always is a bit different and we are both really competitive blokes,” Rigby said.

“And obviously we would both like to walk away with a win, because it is obviously easier to smile after a game. But we are good mates and if those guys get over the line, it will make no difference to Burgo and I personally.

“But we will be certainly going out there to walk away with four points.”