The Blues had won the only previous meeting of the season with the two-time champions by a much tighter three goals, and it looked like another close encounter would eventuate after a neck-and-neck first term.
It was Rumba who grabbed the early lead in the first quarter, up three goals in the opening minutes, but Tongala restored parity midway through the period, Rumbalara ahead one at the first break.
Tonny got the edge at the start of the second and held a three-goal lead for much of the term, making another late run to score a 28-23 lead at half-time.
After the long break, the Blues asserted their authority, making several runs within five minutes of the resumption to push the margin to double digits.
Up 11 at the last change, Tongala closed the game out confidently, draining six of the last seven scores to advance.
The Blues will battle Mulwala in the preliminary final, scheduled for 1.50pm at Finley Recreation Reserve this Saturday after the Lions fell to Nathalia 65-47.
Tongala has the recent history advantage, winning the last clash by four goals on August 8, after the Lions claimed the other meeting earlier in the season.
It can also be argued the Blues have the big game experience, having successfully made it through the lower finals bracket to reach a prelim for a third season in a row following their premiership in 2023.
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