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The Sydney Roosters have been a quality side all season, who like most successful sides in the past, built a foundation for success in defence.
Eyebrows were raised at their loss to the Gold Coast Titans in the run in to the finals, but their round 26 win against the South Sydney Rabbitohs silenced any critics.
That performance was dominant, and they continued where they left off with a tremendous defensive effort in the 4-0 defeat of Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles in week one of the finals.
The win highlighted the defence of the Roosters and established them as premiership favourites.
However, they face a very different threat in the form of the dark horses: Newcastle Knights.
In successive weeks, the Knights eliminated both the 2012 grand finalists, starting with a strong defensive performance in the defeat of the Brisbane Bulldogs.
They then proved their mettle with a strong performance against the Melbourne Storm and came up winners for the first time at AAMI Park.
Under the mentorship of master coach Wayne Bennett, Newcastle’s mix of experience and youth has nothing to lose; something that will worry the Roosters.
Nonetheless, the Roosters will have faith in their forward pack led by Sonny Bill Williams, while their strong backline would look to keep the Knights at bay.
The defensive effort against Manly was incredible, and should a similar performance be produced by the Roosters, they should get the win.
But you can never underestimate the Knights, who will be determined to send club legend Danny Buderus out on a high in his last season.
Newcastle’s backline is a machine, and with origin players in Darius Boyd, Akuila Uate and James McManus, they know how to score points.
Combined with the Bennet factor, Newcastle have certainly got a chance but they will need a herculean effort to overcome the Roosters.
Tip: Knights by 4
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