South Australia's Nic and Rocco have set up a grand final showdown against their fellow state team Leigh and Jennifer in a battle to become the 2012 MY KITCHEN RULES champions.

The childhood mates from Adelaide had to knockout their close friends Victorian sisters Carly and Emily in a semi-final clash which went down to the wire. Only one point separated them with Nic and Rocco victorious on a score of 44/60 and the girls narrowly behind on 43. "We're over the moon," Rocco said about making it to the grand final. "This is a dream come true for us."

The two teams had to prepare their best three-course menu for judges Pete Evans and Manu Feildel and guest judges Tobie Puttock, Guy Grossi, Karen Martini and Liz Egan. It was a close decision, with the judges calling it the closest battle yet. "It couldn't have been easy because all of you have become very close in this competition," Pete said, acknowledging the two teams' tight bond.

Nic and especially Rocco had to put aside their personal feelings and produce a menu of the highest order to win. Tonight they served Bird’s Nest Pasta for entrée, a King George Whiting and Shellfish Mousseline main and a trio of desserts called Dolci Misti featuring Chocolate Mousse, Vanilla Panna Cotta and Zuppa Inglese.

The competitive sisters nearly had the boys beaten with their menu consisting of Dukkah Crusted Scallops for entree, a Duck Confit with Duck Neck Sausage main and Persian Love Cakes with Panna Cotta and Fresh Figs for dessert. While Karen declared their last dish "the best dessert I've ever had on My Kitchen Rules", it wasn't enough to snare victory.

The judges praised the girls for their drive and determination. Despite bowing out, Carly said they "didn't want to go out to any other team" before adding: "Our experience on My Kitchen Rules has been absolutely unforgettable. It's like slipping back to childhood where we lived and cooked together. We're walking away from the competition with more food knowledge and some amazing friends and memories."

Emily stated: "We're happy and definitely leaving with our heads held high."

Tonight is the MY KITCHEN RULES grand final with two South Australian teams going head to head. In the ultimate test, they must prepare a five course menu for a full restaurant. With 100 plates to serve per team and $250,000 prize money at stake, the pressure will be on.