It’s a grand final rematch to launch this weekend’s round of preliminary finals, with the high-flying Roosters facing off against the Sharks.

The last time the two sides met was only two weeks ago, with the Roosters far too strong in their Round 11 match, rounding off the regular season with a 40-10 win.

However, it came at a cost, losing halfback Tarryn Aiken to an ACL injury, while rising youngster Aliyah Nasio also will sit out this game after being suspended for a shoulder charge.

The Sharks come into this game after securing a close win against the North Queensland Cowboys who were making their first final appearance.

The 24-18 result gave them the opportunity to make amends for last year’s grand final loss to the Roosters where their almighty second half comeback fell just short, going down 32-28. 

With the undefeated Roosters being talked up by fans expecting them to go back-to-back, the Sharks have plenty of motivation to cause an upset. 

Team News

Roosters: Corban Baxter has been named to make her return from an ankle injury suffered in Round 7, and will replace Golden Boot winner Tarryn Aiken (knee) in the halves. Baxter will play five-eighth, with Jocelyn Kelleher shifting to halfback for her 50th NRLW game. A suspension to Aliyah Nasio has seen Taina Naividi shift from wing to the back row, with Mia Wood moving from the bench to the wing. Shawden Burton is the new face on the interchange. Jayme Fressard, Amber Hall and Jess Sergis all suffered injuries in the Round 11 win over the Sharks but have been named to play this weekend.

Sharks: No changes to the 17 that defeated North Queensland in Townsville last week but the Sharks could be set for a huge boost closer to game day. Star centre Annessa Biddle (elbow) and Jillaroos hooker Quincy Dodd (ankle) have both been named in the extended squad as they push to return from long-term injuries in Saturday’s preliminary final. 

Stat Attack

The Roosters have won all four games against the Sharks.
Sharks winger Georgia Ravics has scored 10 tries in her last 10 games.
Roosters halfback Jocelyn Kelleher will make her 50th NRLW appearance.
Sharks captain Tiana Penitani Gray has scored five tries in eight games against the Roosters.
The Roosters have won six from six at Polytec Stadium.

Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.