It's Grand Final time in the Lindroth Cup.
Power House (1) and Northern (3) will battle it out at Box Hill Rugby Club to determine who is the premier Women's side in 2019.
With close, hard-fought contests between the side in their two regular season clashes, with Power House edging out Northern in bother encounters, it is sure to be a blockbuster match on Field 1 at 10:45am.
We caught up with both sides before their knock-out clash to hear their thoughts on their sides preparations and what they believe the opposition will bring game day.
Christy O'Shea - Power House Head Coach
How has the teams preparations been heading into the Grand Final?
We have had really good preparation over the last 2 weeks and are in a really good space leading into Grand Final. We had a very tough semi-final against Casey Crusaders in horrendous conditions but we were able to grind out the win and earn an extra week off for recovery and preparation. The players have remained focused in every session, pushed themselves hard towards the end of last week and concentrated on Grand Final specifics all of this week. We have had some injuries through the season and in the back in of the season but we have a very strong 23 going up to Box Hill on Saturday and everyone in the club is looking forward to the day.
What learnings did you take out of your two regular season match-ups against Northern?
Our 2 games this year have been very very close. We were able to come away with wins both times but we had to fight until the final whistle. There was only a score between us in our most recent meeting and they were 2 physical battles. We know they bring a strong ball carrying game but can also spread the ball out wide with some great hands. They have a more physical presence and it takes a lot to stop them when they are on the attack and I’m sure it will be more of the same this weekend.
What do you expect Northern to bring to the match-up for the Grand Final?
Northern have a mix of experience and youth throughout their team. They will bring power up front and speed from the back. They have players who have won the Lindroth Cup last year and will want to repeat that this weekend. We have players who lost the Grand Final last year and will want to redeem themselves. It is 2 very different styles of rugby coming up against each other and it will be whoever executes their game plan the best on the day that will come away champions.
Which players do you expect to fire for Northern this weekend?
We know their leader and stalwart Silei is going to give it her all in this game as she does in every game and she will have her troops ready to go too. Their 9 loves to get quick ball from the ruck and 10 and 12 have great hands and speed that can make a break at any time. Their pack as a whole can get clean ball back on their scrums but put a lot of pressure on the defensive scrums too so that is something we are conscious of.
Silei Poluleuligaga - Northern Head Coach
How has the teams preparations been heading into the Grand Final?
It's been great, especially having these few games beforehand to really test out where we need to improve more on and execute our strengths well. Our womens team has really proven it's all heart.
What learnings did you take out of your two regular season match-ups against Power House?
Definitely learning to believe in ourselves and that when we are confident the impossible is possible.
What do you expect Power House to bring to the match-up for the Grand Final?
Everything, it's the Grand Final!!! Although, we will definitely be hoping to get one over them.
Which players do you expect to fire for Power House this weekend?
Powerhouse have worked all season as a team hence why they finished on top, I don't expect anything less. Everyone is gonna be on fire for the game tomorrow, it'll be who wants it the most.
