Deni sits in eighth place heading into the last home and away round, tied on 28 competition points with ninth-placed Jerilderie, but ahead by just 2.53 per cent.
Jerilderie play tenth-placed Mathoura at home, so with the results uncertain, both Rovers and Jerilderie will need to win with superior margins to make finals.
Rovers coach Alex Hay said his charges were competitive for three quarters last week, but suffered a 39-point loss to the sixth-placed Picola United.
He said consistency from start to finish would be key this weekend.
“It was a really good contest on the weekend. For three quarters, I was pleased that we were able to match it with their bigger bodies and get some ascendancy from the middle of the ground.
“Our forward entries have been a little bit of an issue throughout the year, and we probably just missed that connection piece going inside 50.
“Having said that, Picola's pressure was a challenge in moving the ball to the outside. Unfortunately, we weren't able to sustain our level in the last quarter, and they capitalised on some early opportunities.”
While Rovers will be underdogs this week based on ladder position, Hay said he always embraces a challenge and hopes for his team.
“We’re continuing to foster the attitude and application that we are not only a good enough team to compete, but also to win against the best in the competition.
“All year we’ve shown glimpses, but it hasn’t been enough to make any waves just yet.
“I’ve always embraced the notion of accepting the challenge, and this week is no exception. We're holding on to a finals spot by the skin of our teeth, but I believe that we can match up well with Katandra.
“I’ll be imploring the boys to understand what makes us a good team and stick to the task for the entirety of the match, which we really need to do to keep touch with the top eight.”
Katandra have been a strong team in the top eight since their first game of the season.
The Rovers will try to focus on limiting their uncontested possessions.
“Planning for Katandra, they have always been a really strong marking and hard running team, so the focus will be to limit their uncontested marking and make sure that we are strong in the contest.
“It is always easier said than done against quality opposition, but keeping in mind what is on offer if we win will provide the motivation that we need, I’m sure.”
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