By John Donnachie / asbpremiership.co.nz 

CHRISTCHURCH - The Canterbury United Dragons are on the verge of a third Grand Final appearance and most likely an O League spot for the first time in their history.

It would take a bitter sceptic to think otherwise.

The Dragons go into Sunday's semi-final second leg tie with Waitakere United  holding a 1-0 lead. Their form at ASB Football Park has been exemplary this season- they are undefeated.

Moreover, in four meetings with the reigning champions since last April they have won them all.

And for those who are superstitious the year 2012 just happens to be the year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac calendar.

Perhaps then it will be a case of third time lucky should they reach their third Grand Final?

Dragons coach Keith Braithwaite however, was in no mood to star gaze or dare contemplate the prospect of a Grand Final berth.

“They have nothing to lose. It's win or bust for them. On their day Waitakere are the best team in the country,” Braithwaite said.

Braithwaite has heard of the champions selection woes but was unmoved. “Whatever team they field it will be a strong side,” he said.

Last Sunday's precious away goal win at “the Fred” is advantage Canterbury but the tie is perilously balanced according to Braithwaite. “We have to be careful. We have not decided whether we will attack or try to contain them.

The Dragons will be missing Darren White and likely Andy Barton-two of their most influential forwards this campaign. This may force Braithwaite's hand when it comes to deciding how to approach arguably the biggest football match in Christchurch for years.

But even he senses the finishing line is in sight.

“We are 90 minutes away from making history and making it a great day for Canterbury Football. These players have made big sacrifices since the earthquakes last year,” Braithwaite said.

Waitakere United coach, Neil Emblen, meanwhile remains bullish about the champions prospects at the ASB Football Park fortress.
 
“If we can create the same chances like we did the last time in Christchurch-we can do it. But the first goal is vital,” Emblen said.
 
Emblen said this season had been particularly challenging for the West Aucklanders. Confidence was low and playing resources had been stretched with injuries and players leaving. It was a case of taking their chances when they arrived.

“We have to make any one on ones with the goalkeeper count this time,” he said.

Emblen though realises the champions are going to have throw the form book out the window and pull out all stops to beat a rampant Canterbury side.

 “For me their biggest strength is they are a unit. Sometimes we are maybe more about individuals that is the difference between us both this season.”

The champions are missing defender Jason Rowley who is injured and Tim Myers who is suspended. Pacy striker Ryan De Vries was unlikely to feature, while goal machine Roy Krishna would travel but was extremely doubtful.

Emblen meanwhile laughed off suggestions he would play. “I'm not sure my kit would fit me now.”

The action gets underway at ASB Football Park in Christchurch on Sunday, kick-off at 2pm.