One of the NRL’s most bizarre seasons, perhaps second only to 2020, reaches its dramatic climax over the next four weeks with the Finals beginning in Queensland and a winner to be crowned in what is likely to be the NRL’s first interstate Grand Final.
Parramatta find themselves in sudden death shootouts from here on, but there remains hope that they could lift the trophy for the first time since 1986.
With Clint Gutherson and Mitch Moses fully fit, the Eels have a real shot at giving the Finals a shake.
While this Sunday’s Elimination Final against Newcastle usually would have been at Bankwest Stadium, it’ll instead be played at Browne Park in Rockhampton as the NRL takes the Finals on the road to regional centres.
“Rugby league is part of the social fabric of these communities and we’re excited to reward them for that support by hosting the first week of our Finals series,’’ said NRL CEO Andrew Abdo.
“Through adversity comes opportunity and we’re delighted to give back to these regions with the rare opportunity to host semi-final games. We’re also continuing to work with the Queensland Government about playing in regional Queensland for Week 2.”
Mr Abdo thanked clubs, players and officials for the way they have handled the relocation of the competition due to the COVID-19 situation in Sydney.
“This has been an incredibly challenging year, but like we did in 2020, the game has come together and we have found a way to keep our competition going which is a great outcome for our fans, many of whom are experiencing lockdowns,” he said.
“I can’t wait for the series to start. Clearly Melbourne and Penrith have been outstanding through the regular season, but we saw only a week ago that Parramatta defeated the Storm – a number of teams have found form at the right time of the year to set up the series perfectly.
“This will be a very unique Finals Series knowing that teams will not have the usual home ground advantage. It will be especially important for members and supporters of the teams in Queensland to attend the games and give their teams the edge at a home away from home.”
The NRL officially launched the Finals in Brisbane on Monday morning.
Tickets are on sale now for QLD-based supporters.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.