That's the message from coach Matt Morgan as the Merriwa Magpies fly into the Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League Women's 11s decider against the Murrurundi Mavettes at Muswellbrook's Olympic Park on Friday, November 15.

The defending premiers have been an absolute "juggernaut" in the popular competition over the past two seasons, winning 11 matches straight.

But, it won't mean anything if the Magpies succumb in the 2019 grand final.

"They've worked - and trained - too hard to let this one slip," Morgan said.

"It would be nice to defend our title, however we're not taking anything for granted.

"The girls just concentrate on each week and their next opponent.

"I know they'll be ready for it."

While Merriwa dominated last year's competition, the side underwent a few changes, although that hasn't stopped the Magpies' momentum.

Morgan introduced three rookies - Rebecca Constable, Charlie Carrall and Elly Blackadder - and picked up a couple of handy recruits in Kate Morgan and Lucy Prudden.

"We don't have a big [playing] group," he said.

"However, they've bought into what I'm doing.

"Even when we lost Taylah [Blackadder], we managed to secure someone as experienced as Lucy [Prudden].

"It was a good swap.

"Also, they're a tight group - in fact, six of them are related," he added with a laugh.

"But, the girls are extremely dedicated; they train at least one-and-a-half to two hours every Tuesday and Thursday.

"They absolutely love it."

Merriwa overcame Murrurundi 10-0 in their previous outing a fortnight ago; and another close battle is expected this week.

"We won't worry about them, just our game," Morgan said.

"We'll rely on our defence, control the ball and be patient.

"You can't score every time you have the pill - you have to earn tries."

One thing Morgan's noticed is the new level of intensity on the paddock, compared to 2018.

"The standard has definitely lifted," he said.

"So, we had to change things up [this season].

"I believe we've really embraced the 11s out here.

"And, apart from Murrurundi, I don't think the other clubs have.

"It will eventually take over from league tag, with more young girls playing.

"However, we're not just a team.

"We have a good group of people behind us, like Bruce Blackadder, Nathan Barry, Roy Morgan, Bob Rolfe, Jeremy Nichols, Neville Blackadder, Phil Neale and Carol McLoughlin.

"That shows you how serious we take it."

The main showdown is set to kick off at 7pm, following the Tigers-Greyhounds' encounter from 6.15pm.

(Friday, November 15 - at Olympic Park, Muswellbrook)

6.15pm: Aberdeen v Singleton

7pm: Merriwa v Murrurundi