The Magic last played off for Victorian football’s ultimate prize two years ago when it was defeated by South Melbourne 1-0 in front over 5000 spectators.
On a cold afternoon at Bob Jane Stadium, the venue for this Sunday’s final, Altona’s defence was bamboozled by a superb bit of play from Fernando De Moraes.De Moraes received the ball off the line in the far left corner of the Albert Rd end,turned his opponent inside out with a clever flick behind and crossed the ball into the area, where Gianni De Nittis made no mistake with his header.South Melbourne defended the 63rd minute goal for the remainder of the match to be crowned champion.

While many things have changed since that day, the memories still remain for the Altona faithful.This week will see the Magic take a full strength squad into the decider against the Knights, and with a mountain of momentum behind it. Altona toppled the Knights a fortnight ago in enemy territory at Knights Stadium, giving them direct passage into the decider.

Tortesvski said the week’s break afforded it was vitally important. ”It was fantastic to have a rest and it has given everyone the chance to freshen up,” Tortesvski said.”We will be taking a full strength side in and obviously having the week off has helped out a lot. ”It is a nice bonus.” The Magic have been the most impressive team throughout the finals series after finishing the regular season in third position.

They have conquered Preston in impressive fashion in week one, and also dismantled the Knights a fortnight ago in the major semi-final on penalties. Although that match could easily have gone the other way, the fact the Knights have had to play a lot more football over the past month could be a factor. The Knights have also been battling some injury concerns with several players carrying niggles.

However, Tortesvksi wasn’t reading too much into it. ”I think it’s a grand final which means anything can happen,” he said. ”We’re really looking forward to it and obviously it is something we have been working towards all year.”

Star play-maker Henry Fa’Arodo will be crucial to Altona’s chances on Sunday, as will Carl Recchia. Recchia scored for the Magic during regular time against the Knights a fortnight ago and will need to create more problems again. Time will tell if the ghosts of 2006 can drive the Magic to success this weekend.