LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
Illawarra's Tarsha Gale Cup, Harold Matthews Cup, and SG Ball Cup squads are gearing up for a trio of postseason matches at Collegians on Sunday.
The Tarsha Gale and Harold Matthews teams finished at the top of their respective ladders and will be fighting for a spot in the Preliminary Final.
On the other hand, the SG Ball squad is facing a must-win game in a fifth-versus-eighth matchup.
Only two players from last year's Grand Final team, Herewaka Pohatu and Makayla McFayden, have been named in the upcoming matches.
Kiara Kostovski will be playing at fullback, with Tahlia O'Brien and Tori Shipton in the halves and at hooker, respectively.
Captain Trinity Tauaneai and Seriah Palepale lead a strong pack for Head Coach Courtney Crawford.
The Steelers had an impressive regular season, winning seven out of their eight matches.
Their only loss was a close two-point defeat to Canterbury in Round 3.
Crawford is optimistic about his team's chances, stating, "I'm really excited with how the teams have been tracking across the season and really pleased with the effort and enthusiasm shown in training."
Crawford also emphasized the importance of focus and determination heading into the finals, saying, "I think the key factor for all the teams in the finals now is mentality...
it's about who can turn up and be the best on the day." The coach is confident in his players' abilities and believes they have what it takes to come out on top in the upcoming matches.
As the Steelers prepare for their home triple-header, there is a sense of anticipation and excitement among the players and coaching staff.
With their strong performances throughout the regular season, the teams are aiming to carry that momentum into the finals and secure victories to advance further in the competition.
The stage is set for an exciting day of junior rugby league action at Collegians, and the Steelers are ready to rise to the challenge.