A Bushrangers side packed with many first-time players fought hard to close the gap in the last quarter though it wasn't enough to catch the Orange Tigers, who won 4-4-28 to 3-3-21 at George Park 1 on Sunday.

Orange's big three-goal third quarter proved the difference between the teams in what was otherwise a back-and-forth tussle in dreary conditions.

Considering his side started the season with a 0-3 record, Bushrangers coach Alex Sparks was thrilled that his side could reach the grand final and throw down a challenge to their Orange opponents.

"It was a really good game in pretty tough conditions. The third quarter let us down a little bit but we fought back and took it to the siren, and that's all you can ask for," he said.

"We've had a terrific season. Coming back from 0-3 to make the grand final was great in itself but the teamwork on Sunday was amazing on Sunday and they only just got pipped at the post.

"I think Orange had just a little more structure than what we had and they had people where they needed to be. When it comes down to a couple of goals it's hard to see too much of a difference though between them."

Sparks is hopeful his team come back bigger and stronger after more exposure to the game.

"They had a fantastic season and really enjoyed their football. Hopefully we can keep those players around," he said.

"Some of them move up to under 14s but we're going to have a fair few players staying in under 12s because we';re a little younger than the other teams.

"That means if we can get most of them back then you'll see those skills improve and I'm sure we'll be able to go one better."

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