The NRL and NRLW will each see two Preliminary Finals this weekend to determine who will play in the Grand Finals next week. Here is your NRL and NRLW preliminary finals preview.
NRL
Tonight at 7:50pm, the Melbourne Storm will host the Sydney Roosters at AAMI Park. Melbourne comes into the match as overwhelming favourites, having the last five meetings between the two sides. That includes a two from two record this season. The Roosters are no strangers to finals footy, however, and will be looking to capitalise on the momentum from their 40-16 win over the Sea Eagles last week. There have been no changes to either team’s starting lineup.
On Saturday at 7:50pm, the Penrith Panthers take on the Cronulla Sharks at Accor Stadium in Sydney. The Panthers, seeking a fifth consecutive Grand Final appearance, are the favourite to beat the Sharks who won their first final since 2017 last week. The Panthers may see the return of back-rower Scott Sorensen, while the Sharks have named an unchanged lineup.
NRLW
The first NRLW final on Sunday at 2:05pm sees five-time minor premiers the Brisbane Broncos take on the Cronulla Sharks in Brisbane. The Broncos finished first on the ladder and beat the Sharks in Round 8 this season. The Sharks have lost their last three games and will be looking to bounce back and make their first grand final appearance.
The second final is between the Sydney Roosters and the Newcastle Knights at 4:15pm on Sunday. The Knights beat the Roosters in Round 1 and are seeking their third consecutive NRLW premiership. That being said, the Roosters will have a home-ground advantage at Allianz Stadium where they have won five from six this season.
