The top eight were decided and off they all went in pursuit of the grand final trophy. Four clubs from Sydney and one each from Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and New Zealand.
First round: League winners Canberra got run down in spectacular fashion by Brisbane and Cronulla shut out the in form Sydney Roosters. The NZ Warriors came into the finals in less than ideal form and the inform Penrith Panthers in the end ran away with the match. Finally, Melbourne were just too experienced for the plucky Canterbury Bulldogs side.
Second round: With two teams having a week off, Canberra tried to get redemption for last week's heatbreak but were outplayed by a very solid Cronulla Sharks. I the other encounter, Penrith's experience in finals paid off in a comfortable win over the Bulldogs.
Third Round: One game away from a grand final berth. Melbourne got home against a plucky Cronulla while Brisbane enjoyed another nail biting victory over the last four grand final victors Penrith. Is the dynasty over for the losing Panthers?
Grand Final: Melboune won its last grand final in 2020 and Brisbane in 2006 so for the latter a long time between drinks of the celebratory sort. Melbourne was ahead for much of the game but Brisbane have been reveling in arm wrestles and wouldn't go away. In the end, they won yet another tight one 22-18.
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