Five years after their historic Australian Hockey League title, the team is determined to prove it was not a one-off.

"It's time for us to move on from being happy with third to go to the next level," declared coach Andrew McDonald.

"It's not good enough just to be in the semi. It's time to win one. That's the challenge for this group and I'm pleased to say that attitude is being driven by the players.

"We are growing our status as a top-four hockey state and the others have to catch us."

ELSEWHERE IN SPORT

McDonald said his squad is as strong as the class of 2014 - both of which have been led by inspirational Kookaburra Eddie Ockenden.

"I really don't need to do much. When you've got the national captain plus Tim Deavin, Jeremy Hayward, Josh Beltz and Hayden Beltz why wouldn't you use that experience?

"I find that very rewarding with this group. They could prepare, train and play by themselves. I just give them a little prod.

"They have got their own drive."

The group is not fazed by returning to the scene of a 7-0 drubbing on October 18 at the hands of Brisbane Blaze - one of two defeats in their six-match campaign.

"The last time we went to Brisbane we got a bit of a lesson and haven't forgotten it," McDonald said.

"We won't play the same way. We've been refining our game post that match and focusing on the elements that got exposed.

"That lesson has been well received and the players are champing at the bit."

If the Tigers win at 6.30pm on Saturday, the final will be a week later in Melbourne against either the host city or NSW.

McDonald said his team is prepared for the prospect of facing home opponents in both matches.

"It does not do us any favours and I'd love to be playing at home but the finals venue is based on where the top women's team is. Next year it will be based on the top men's team."

While you're with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates direct to your inbox? Sign up here.