LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Roosters head into the finals in impressive form, having won five of their last six matches which propelled them from 10th to 8th place. Meanwhile, the Sharks are coming off a commanding victory over the Bulldogs.
James Tedesco is currently in top form, showcasing some of the best football of his notable career, while Mark Nawaqanitawase continues to score at will. The Roosters have amassed a staggering 202 points in their previous six games and arrive at Sharks Stadium filled with confidence.
The Sharks have also been performing well, winning seven out of eight games since their Round 18 bye. Their recent 24-6 victory over the Bulldogs served as a solid demonstration of their capabilities, with key forwards Addin Fonua-Blake, Toby Rudolf, and Tom Hazelton laying a strong foundation.
A significant boost for the Sharks is the return of star playmaker Nicho Hynes, who has been cleared to play after the Match Review Committee downgraded his Dangerous Contact charge from a Grade 2 to a Grade 1, resulting in just a fine rather than a potential suspension.
Hynes will be up against Roosters' No.7 Sam Walker, who has impressively contributed 15 try assists, nine tackle breaks, and 38 goals since making his return from an ACL injury in Round 19.
The last encounter between these teams took place in Round 20 at Sharks Stadium, where Craig Fitzgibbon's squad showcased their strength, with ten players each exceeding 100 metres in a 31-18 victory.