DENISON, Texas (KTEN) - Two district rivals will battle for one spot in the UIL state baseball tournament when Gunter and Pottsboro square off in the regional finals this week.

The two teams met twice in late march, with Gunter winning both games by a single run. However, that was nearly two months ago, and both team think they have improved since then. 

"We've really come together and become really close this year," said Pottsboro senior outfielder Jett Carroll.

The same can be said for the Tigers, who come into the series with a 34-1 record this season.

"It's just our practice, we come out here everyday and we get great practices in," said Gunter sophomore shortstop Cade Dodson.

Some teams try to take a "one-game-at-a-time" approach, saying they are focused on the goal in front of them, rather than who is in the way.

Both of these teams would probably love to operate like that but both know it adds a little something extra to be playing a district opponent for a shot at state.

Pottsboro and Gunter both know each others strengths and weaknesses, which should make this week all the more interesting.

"This is gonna be a really good game," said Gunter outfielder Mason Sadler. "We're all so excited for it."

"We're the best two teams really in Texas," said Pottsboro first baseman Jaxson Jester. "I've been dreaming about it for a while now, to get another shot, and now we're gonna get it."

As badly as these teams want to beat each other, the two head coaches have shown respect for the other's program.

"They're the favorite, we're the underdog and we accept this challenge and this opportunity to compete," said Pottsboro head coach Donny McEwan.

"It's a rivalry and I think there will be a little bit of talking but I think it's a friendly rivalry because we know each other so well," said Gunter head coach Daryl Hellman.

All games will be at Coppell High School with a start time at 1 p.m. Game one is set for Wednesday, game two is on Thursday and game three, if necessary will be played Friday, weather permitting.