Two-time defending premier Rennie is moving through to a third consecutive preliminary final after shutting down Katamatite in Saturday's Mathoura-hosted semi-final, again showing its ability to peak at the right time of year.
While the nine-point margin screams of a tight encounter, the Hoppers controlled a large majority of the contest, turning for home 30 points ahead before the Tigers roared home to give themselves half a late sniff.
But once again, Rennie shut its doubters up to earn an opportunity to play for a grand final spot, taking on Strathmerton on Sunday for that chance.
Hoppers coach Craig Ednie said his side had done what it needed to do in wrestling the five-goal advantage in the first three terms.
"It was a great win, we played a pretty good first three quarters," Ednie said.
"They came at us in the last quarter and having a bloke sent off didn't help, but we were able to hang in there and win.
"I think it came down to effort and everyone playing their role.
"We were able to stop some of their better players like Pat Horsburgh, (Brodie) McDonald, (Nichol) Clurey and those sort of guys. They're a very good team and probably a bit unlucky they lost their ruckman and an on-baller."
Katamatite's Brodie McDonald won the battle of the beast goal-kickers, kicking four goals to Chase Strawhorn's three, but it was the latter who had the last laugh with his side getting the chocolates.
Other standouts for the Hoppers included young duo Joel O'Dwyer and Jack Kennedy, while Ednie continued his fine wine impression — getting better with age.
"Joel O'Dwyer and Jack Kennedy, our two youngest players, they were right up there in the best and that's really good for the club," Ednie said.
"Everyone played their part, but those two stood out."
For Katamatite, it ends a season that was jam-packed full of potential yet ultimately ended without a finals win, the emerging side to again be one of the league's key contenders next season should it keep its core together.
Tom Buzza shone as always in defence with Trent Steers and Chris McKay chipping in nicely, while Pat Riordan turned in another great display.
FINAL SCORE
Rennie 5.2, 7.6, 9.11, 10.11 (71) d Katamatite 1.3, 2.4, 5.5, 9.8 (62)