The SG Ball Steelers are gearing up to host the Melbourne Storm in the first week of the NSWRL Finals Series following a dominant 54–6 win against the Balmain Tigers over the weekend.
Despite the emphatic win, the Steelers narrowly missed a spot in the top four. Now, it’s all on the line as they prepare for an elimination final this weekend—win or go home.
Five-eighth Aaymon Fitzgibbon was instrumental from the opening whistle in the win over the Tigers, earning Player of the Match honours with a hat-trick performance.
The in-form 19-year-old pivot will be looking to back it up in the do-or-die clash against a formidable Melbourne outfit.
“Our team really gelled well together, and everyone was working hard for each other—it ended up paying off, Fitzgibbon said.
“Balmain were fighting for a top eight spot, so they gave it their all. We just held them off.”
Fitzgibbon and his teammates aren’t taking it for granted, as the focus shifts to the finals footy.
“Everyone’s excited to play finals. It’s a great time of the year, and no one can really complain,” he said.
“But that doesn’t mean we back off—we have to go even harder now and keep working for each other.”
The Steelers faced Melbourne in Round 1 and came out on top, but both sides have changed. However, Fitzgibbon says the boys are dialled in.
“Everyone’s ready to go. We’ve had nine rounds to get ready for this, and the home crowd gives us a boost.
“Seeing everyone you know in the stands gives you that little bit more to play for. It’s a privilege to play in front of your home crowd.”
We’ve Got Unfinished Business: Langdon
Drew Langdon, also 19, echoed Fitzgibbon’s words. He’s been part of the squad for several seasons, including last year’s heartbreaking 44-16 loss to the Knights in the first week of the finals. He is now ready to take it to the next level.
“It felt good on the weekend—things finally came together. Everything we’ve been trying to work on in training was put into place. ‘Timmo’ [Coach Shaun Timmins] has prepared us well.”
Langdon says the coaching group has kept their faith in the boys through highs and lows.
“Even after a loss, they keep it positive. We just stick to what we know, get back to training, and put our heads down.
“We know the potential we have as a team. It’s about stringing the little things together,” Langdon said.
When it comes to facing the Storm, Langdon is not underestimating the challenge and says the energy will be incredible with the home crowd supporting them.
“They’ve made some changes, and they’ll come out firing. So, we’ve just got to treat them like a new team. And we’ve changed too—we’ve got a bit more hunger.”
“It’s our first finals game at home. All the boys are looking forward to it. Hopefully we get a good crowd out to watch, and we can put on a performance for them.”
Langdon is keen to end the six-year title drought since the Steelers’ last SG Ball premiership in 2019—a moment that still lives in his memory.
“I remember watching that game. Most of those boys are in the NRL now. We’ve got unfinished business.
“Last year, we had a rough run with injuries, but most of us were younger. Now we’re back—stronger, older, and ready to go the distance.”
They’re Ready For the Big Stage
Head coach Shaun Timmins says the group is ready for the big stage after last week’s effort.
“It was a good performance to lead into the finals,” Timmins said.
“But this week’s a new ball game. Melbourne have gone well this season—we beat them in Round 1, but after that they went on a winning streak. It’s going to be a big game.”
Timmins is happy with where his side is sitting, especially with a strong roster heading into Sunday.
“We’ve been fortunate enough to have a lot of guys available to play. The boys are excited. Finals don’t come around easily—they’re hard to make each year. But now that we’re here, we want to make the most of it.”
Having home ground advantage adds another layer of motivation, however with every game from here on a must-win, the road ahead won’t be easy. But this Steelers squad isn’t looking that far just yet.
“It doesn’t guarantee a win, but it’s always good to play at home in front of your friends and family. The boys feel it—it gives them a bit of extra confidence,” Timmins said.
“We’ve just got to focus on this week,” Langdon added.
“Put all our energy into Sunday and play how we want to play. That’s all we can control.”
Week 1 Finals Series | Sunday, 13 April | Collegians Sporting Complex
- 11:30am | Qualifying Final | TGC Steelers (1) v Penrith Panthers (4)
- 1:00pm | Qualifying Final | HMC Steelers (1) v Newcastle Knights (4)
- 2:30pm | Elimination Final| SGB Steelers (5) v Melbourne Storm (8)
Words: Angelina Raula