The stage is set for the Harrigan Cup Grand Final, presented by i98 this weekend, as the defending premiers, Wests Devils, face off against traditional rivals Collegians in what promises to be a fierce and even contest.
For the Devils, the chance to go back-to-back is a reward for consistency, culture, and grit. Captain Tautau Moga, who led the side to the title last year in his debut season with the club, said returning to the big stage is something special.
“It feels good. It’s hard enough to win one, so to get back into that arena again, it’s a good feeling. All the hard work during the season pays off,” Moga said.
Devils Wipe Slate Clean
The Devils booked their place in the grand final with a decisive win over the Collie Dogs in the major semi, giving them a week’s break heading into the decider. For Moga, the time off was an opportunity to refresh both physically and mentally.
“It was good to freshen up the body and reflect on the year. You don’t always get to do that during the season, so having that week off was valuable,” he said.
But Moga knows the slate is clean when it comes to grand final day.
“Every game’s a new game. We had a good win in the semis, but a grand final’s different; anything can happen.”
On centre stage | Wests skipper Tautau Moga on another mid-field raid
Dogs Back In The Hunt
Across town, Collegians captain Blake Phillips is equally eager to lead his side into the decider. Collies are hunting their first title since 2022, and Phillips believes his team is ready to make amends for their semi-final slip-up.
“We didn’t play the way we wanted in that semi after the week off, but we got back on track last week. This is a great shot at redemption; the grand final is the biggest game of the year, so we’ll be putting our best foot forward,” Philips said.
This year’s campaign has been Collegians first under coach Jimmy Grehan, whose fresh approach has kept the squad grounded and focused.
“Jimmy’s put his own twist on things. Training’s always been high intensity, but he keeps us focused on each day, not getting too caught up in nerves. We’ve just been ticking the boxes leading into Saturday,” Phillips explained.
Leader of the pack | Collies captain Blake Phillips on the charge
Backing The Future
A key feature of the Dogs campaign has been their mix of young talent and hardened veterans. Phillips, who has experienced both the highs of premierships and the heartbreak of defeats, believes that balance will be crucial.
“We’ve got a lot of youth, but also experienced guys who know what it takes. Our job is to help the young ones prepare properly. We’ve learned from that loss to Wests, and now there are no second chances.”
Reflecting on the competition, Phillips described 2025’s Harrigan Cup season in one word: even.
“It’s been an even playing field. Anyone could beat anyone on their day, which kept the comp strong and entertaining. We’re grateful to be here now, and we’ll give it our all this weekend.”
With both captains promising a full-throttle performance and two proud clubs chasing glory, Saturday’s grand final has all the ingredients of a classic Harrigan Cup decider.
Words | Angelina Raula
Action shots | Denis Ivaneza