The Illawarra Steelers Tarsha Gale Cup side will have everything to play for this Saturday when they host the Melbourne Storm at Collegians Sporting Complex.
With a finals berth on the line, Courtney Crawford’s Steelers know the equation is simple — win, and they’re in.
Currently locked in a tight battle for the final spots, the Steelers face an 11th-placed Storm outfit in what shapes as a favourable matchup on paper.
Adding further intrigue, rival teams chasing the same finals position face significantly tougher opposition this weekend. While those results could fall Illawarra’s way, the message within camp is clear: leave nothing to chance.
A victory ensures the Steelers take control of their own destiny and punch their ticket to the finals series.
Backrower Michala Hardy (pictured) says the squad is embracing the moment with a fresh mindset heading into the final round of the regular season.
“Kind of just to take it as like the first game of the season — put your all into it and work together as a team,” Hardy said.
“We’ve got most of our players back. We lost a few early in the year, but they’re all back now. So it’s kind of just our last chance… playing our best footy this weekend.”
Finals Berth At Stake
Reflecting on her junior representative journey, Hardy understands exactly what’s at stake — and how quickly seasons can slip away.
“First year of Lisa Fiaola in 2024, we made the semi-finals and lost, unfortunately, but it was a really good game. Last year we didn’t make it as far as we wanted to, but still had a great year with everyone.”
Now, with a finals opportunity within reach, the stakes feel even higher.
“I feel like it’s such a step up from the round games. It’s just such a different level… like starting your whole season again, needing to win every game. It’s just a next-level experience.”
Hardy has been a key contributor throughout the campaign, showcasing her versatility across the pack and backline — a quality she says is all about putting the team first.
“I think it’s been really good. I started in the back row and I’ve gone into centre, back row, a bit of lock — just where the team needs me. I’m always there to do what I need to do for the team.”
On The Right Path
Like many in the Steelers system, Hardy has her sights set on climbing the female pathway, with ambitions of progressing through to the next level.
“I’ve always wanted to be an NRLW player, and it starts from the junior reps — Tarsha Gale up to Harvey Norman. I’m in the Harvey’s squad later this year, so hopefully that’s the next step.”
She also pointed to the rapid growth of the women’s game as a driving force behind the team’s motivation.
“There’s so many more girls joining the program now. It’s just such a better pathway… it’s really good.”
For the Steelers, the path forward is clear — one game, one opportunity, and everything to gain.
All roads lead to Saturday. Win, and the finals await.
Saturday, 4 April, Collegians Sporting Complex
- HMC – Steelers (3rd) v Warriors (15th), 10:30am
- SGB – Steelers (14th) v Warriors (13th), 11:50am
- TGC – Steelers (7th) v Storm (11th), 1:20pm
- LFC – Steelers (12th) v Storm (7th), 2:40pm
Images: Denis Ivaneza