Mat Croker says Newcastle's young players have reached Sunday's grand final by playing without the burden of past finals defeats.
"All they know is being excited for a game, to go out and they play fearless, and it's paying off for us at the moment."
Croker said.
Newcastle face the Sydney Roosters at Accor Stadium after Jermaine McEwen's fearless approach helped them past Penrith in Sunday's preliminary final.
The 21-year-old back-rower forced an error from Panthers forward Moses Leota midway through the first half, then taunted him, prompting an all-in melee.
McEwen said he wanted to bring the same energy to the grand final.
"I want to bring that energy and that presence and I thought I'd try to get under his skin and into his head. I maybe didn't get into his head, but I know I gave the boys energy."
McEwen told AAP.
He has formed a strong back-row partnership with 22-year-old Francis Manuleleua, who said he enjoyed seeing McEwen challenge opponents.
"He started cheering in his face and that's what we want, we want the other team to know that we're up for it, we're coming for their heads."
Manuleleua said.