Matt Hotchkis could get used to this underdog tag.
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For so long he and his Central teammates walked into grand final week with the weight of expectation on their shoulders.
But now, after Central's reign was interrupted by Wests, Hotchkis enters the biggest game of the year simply relishing the chance to shine.
Old foes Wests and Central take centre stage in the Capital League grand final at Lyneham Hockey Centre on Saturday.
Central have featured in seven of the past 10 deciders but a two-year exile from the big stage has paved the way for Wests to emerge as the ACT's premier outfit.
Wests are desperate to retain their Hockey ACT crown as they enter the grand final on the back off a stunning regular season which bore 18 wins from 21 games.
Ask Hotchkis and he will tell you Wests enter the showdown as deserved favourites - which is exactly what makes his Central outfit so dangerous.
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"They're going to sharp, they have been up the top of the table for a reason," Hotchkis said.
"They've got a really well structured game plan so I expect them to be really disciplined with their structure and you just don't get anything free from them.
"We feel a lot better after last Saturday as it was pretty tight [in the semi-final].
"But getting through that the boys are feeling great and are enjoying the week to prepare for not just the game but even at training everyone is excited.
"We extended the sessions slightly and I guess both teams will practice more set plays given that it's a final.
"But it's more of a sharper focus because it's not like you're going to change your game plan dramatically."
Wests finished on top of the table after a superb campaign yet the minor premiership will count for little if they can't convert it into a grand final victory.
So says Wests star Anand Gupte as he prepares for another showdown with Central.
"We've had some really close matches against them this year and I expect no different for the grand final and will probably come out all guns blazing," Gupte said.
"It's going to be a really tough game as usual against them.
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"Simple and basic we think is the way to go for this weekend. We're feeling a little bit nervous but then really excited about it at the same time.
"There might be a few more aerial passes because the field might be a bit flooded [due to rain] but in general we will try and play the same style as we always do and just look forward to it.
"This year we've got a great mix of young players and the older experienced players."
HOCKEY ACT CAPITAL LEAGUE
Saturday: Grand final - Wests v Central at Lyneham Hockey Centre, 5.30pm
