It will be the second straight year the rivals have met in the Maitland Netball Association A-grade decider with Lantry Plumbing booking their spot with a 38-28 preliminary final victory against The George Tavern.

The do-or-die encounter was neck-and-neck for the first half at Maitland Park with only one goal separating the sides, but a strong ­second stanza from Lantry Plumbing ensured they would have a chance to defend their crown.

Lantry Plumbing coach Peta White said she was pleased with their performance.

“We are happy with the win and the way we controlled the game,” White said.

“We didn’t get carried away with anything else, but just played our game and focused on that.”

George Tavern coach Lorraine Keith said she was disappointed with the result, but praised the efforts of Lantry Plumbing’s teenage shooter Genevieve Lantry.

“We didn’t want our season to end like that,” Keith said.

“But the Blacks were very consistent and special mention to young shooter Genevieve Lantry, who we felt played exceptional for them.”

The scores were locked at 9-all after the first quarter while Lantry held a narrow 18-17 advantage at the main break.

It was the third quarter that proved critical in the context of the contest with Lantry out scoring their ­opponents 8-3 and taking a 26-20 lead into the final term.

During the period Kellyann Grayson moved from centre to wing attack for the Rugby Blacks outfit and Kaitlyne Watson stepped into control the mid court while George Tavern swapped Turner sisters Sophie and Jess at centre.

The six-point lead was extended by Lantry Plumbing early in the fourth quarter and George Tavern were unable to recover.

A few late goals for the Thornton squad reduced the margin to 10, but the damage had already been done.

George Tavern were also beaten by Lantry Plumbing (40-33) at the same stage last year.

Lantry Plumbing now advance to Saturday’s grand final against Hills Solicitors, who have lost the last three A-grade deciders by two goals or less.