The final score flattered the Steamers, who trailed 23-6 at one point, with two late tries narrowing the final margin.

The game was a 180-degree turn in form, after Griffith was left in Rivcoll’s wake two weeks ago.

However, memories of that game have been erased with the improved desperation and work at the break down laying the platform for the sides’ win over Albury.

Griffith coach Ashley Gunn said he was very pleased with how his side responded to his urges to play for each other and to believe in the ability of the players around them.

“We live to fight another day, but we were simply more desperate for the ball and I think the final score flattered them a little,” Gunn said.

“I was impressed with how the boys responded to the call for discipline by the coaching staff and we controlled the tempo of the game as we

wanted to.”

The other pleasing aspect of the game was the evenness of the performance, with many players choosing the elimination game to put in their best performance of the year.

“Kiddy (Darren Kidd) is a much better player when he focuses on what he has to do, and I think last weekend was probably the best game I have seen him play, and our lineout was good all day as well,” Gunn said.

“When Josh (Lawrence) came on as well he did a lot of good things and our scrum smashed theirs, which was another attacking option.

“Matt Vitucci got through a lot of work and set up the first try and Jonny Leseli, and Jason Waring-Bryant both had good games as well.”

An early territory advantage to Albury led to an early shot for goal, but the first points of the game came from the right boot of centre Drew Braithwaite.

Griffith will play Waratahs this weekend in Yanco for the chance to play for the title.