The Rats looked in control for much of the match but a fast finishing Burras team got in front when it counted to record the 36-35 win to progress through to the Wimmera Netball Association grand final.

Ararat jumped out of the blocks and got off to an early lead with goalies Maddison Batchelor and Georgia Fleming combining for 13 goals in the opening quarter while the Burras managed just seven.

The Rats extended their lead by one in the second term to take a 22-15 lead into the main break.

The third quarter was when Minyip-Murtoa started to make its move, scoring a game-high 13 goals for the term.

The effort was enough to close the Rats’ lead as both teams went into the final quarter tied at 28-28.

The momentum Minyip-Murtoa had generated continued into the final term, as the Rats tried to match their opponent’s efforts.

It was a tense final minutes, as the Burras eventually got the win to go through to the season decider.

Fleming top scored for the Rats with 20, as midcourter Joanne Cameron was named Ararat’s best in the preliminary final loss.

Kristy Davidson did most of the scoring damage for the Burras with 31 goals.

The loss is a disappointing way to end a strong season for the Rats after it promised so much earlier in the year.