LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
Can the Raiders rebound from their disappointing loss to the Broncos, or will the Sharks continue their quest for their first premiership since 2016?
An exciting showdown is set to unfold in Canberra, featuring one team riding high after securing victory in an elimination final, while the other is reeling from a heartbreaking golden point defeat after leading 28-12.
The Raiders certainly possess the offensive firepower to score freely, and when their attack is firing on all cylinders, they can be a formidable force.
The Sharks, on the other hand, will likely adopt a more calculated strategy, with Nicho Hynes and Braydon Trindall aiming to steer the game, supported by a strong forward pack led by Addin Fonua-Blake.
The last encounter between these teams in a final was during the COVID-impacted 2020 season, where only 9,000 fans were allowed into GIO Stadium, resulting in a 32-20 victory for the Raiders.
This weekend's atmosphere will be markedly different, as a sell-out crowd is anticipated, with the minor premiers eager to avoid the embarrassment of exiting in 'straight sets'.