"A lot of the pressure is off, in terms of returning to premier rugby. But we know we still have a lot of work to do in ensuring we don't yo-yo or float between Premier 1 and Premier 2 - the hard work is only just starting.
"Now we'll see the true resolve of the guys in being able to get up again mentally to play Arataki over at Arataki this weekend," Grace said.
The sides have met once already this season in the first round of Premier 2 and Arataki won 39-19.
"We learnt that to eliminate their scoring opportunities we needed to eliminate our own mistakes," Grace said.
"That's been a huge focus in terms of strategy - how to minimalise turnover as best we can.
"We need to show that we've learnt from that initial lesson Arataki gave us earlier in the season. With it being semifinal rugby we have to put all our chips in and expose our hand, because we'll be mowing lawns next Saturday if we lose."
Arataki coach Billy Russell congratulated Ngongotaha on securing a return to premier rugby.
"It's good to see them back in there. They were one of the strongest teams back in the day and it's good to see them fighting back strong.
"We know they've got some really key, quality players there so we'll be looking to try and play our own game.
"No doubt it will be a strong game up front."
Russell said he expected to be up against a stronger, more experienced Ngongotaha than when they played earlier in the season.
"Obviously that was their first taste of premier rugby and in my opinion they'll be a completely different side.
"They're now used to it, they've played some premier teams, they've played us before and they know what we've got to offer. We'll just look to capitalise on their mistakes and defend well," he said.
Premier 2 semifinals:
2.45pm kickoff
Paroa v Whakatane Marist at Lawson Park
Arataki v Ngongotaha at Arataki Park
Premier 2 Development semifinals:
1pm kickoff
Waikite v Paroa at Bellvue Rd
Opotiki v Ngongotaha at Princess St Reserve
