Many believed that Collegians deserved a spot in the grand final following their nearly flawless regular season. However, doubts about their place in the decider arose following a surprise 32-0 loss to Wests in the Major Semi two weeks ago.
The Devils had been quietly going about their business up until that point, but the win over Collies allowed them to leapfrog the minor premiers into the decider, giving them a chance to claim back-to-back titles.
To their credit, Collies quickly flushed that loss, returning to regular programming with a dominant victory over the Canaries, scoring seven tries to two in last week’s Prelim Final.
The win sets up a mouthwatering Grand Final against the Devils, who have been cooling their jets for two weeks.
The Gamebreakers
Wests: Been there, done that, hard to knock a champion. Big game players right across the paddock here with Luke Chalker and evergreen Tepai Moeroa up front. A serious spine with Joey Dickson, Dane Chisholm and Justin Rodrigues supported by young gun Clay Baldock. Tautau Moga. So many threats on this team, can’t name them all for fear of leaving someone out.
Collegians: Just pick a Grant, any Grant! The Brothers Grant – Blair, Duke and Dextar have been outstanding additions to the Books roster this year, along with the return of mercurial fullback Callum Gromek. A few wily veterans, including captain Blake Phillips, Charly Runciman and Blake Dowel are also showing form at the right time of the year.
Head-to-head
This game shapes up as a belter after both teams shared the spoils with two wins each in their head-to-head battles this year.
- Wests 32 Collegians 0 (Major Semi)
- Collegians 34 Wests 16 (Round 11)
- Wests 14 Collegians 10 (Round 6)
- Collegians 28 Wests 26 (Round 1)
View Team Lists In Match Centre
Photo credit: Denis Ivaneza
Road To The Grand Final
