After years lacking a fearsome middle-forward enforcer, Melbourne appear to have found their man in Utoikamanu, who is finishing the year in career-best form. The new recruit ignited a war of words this week by saying he found some of the Broncos "stuck-up" and hoped to "run someone over" in the grand final. He'll have his work cut out doing that to Haas, the NRL's best prop and the Broncos' hero in their preliminary final against Penrith.
*ADAM REYNOLDS v CAMERON MUNSTER
The two talismanic halves go head to head, both on the lookout for grand final redemption. Reynolds fell in the 2021 and 2023 grand finals but the halfback will be full of confidence after nailing the sideline conversion that sent the Broncos to the decider. Munster has flaunted new game-managing abilities during one of his best NRL seasons, having become known for his off-the-cuff style of play. The Storm five-eighth will be desperate to avoid back-to-back grand final losses.
*XAVIER COATES v DEINE MARINER
There is no better winger in the air than Coates, who is fresh from being named in the Dally M Team of the Year. Expect him to be a target for the boot of either Munster or Jahrome Hughes whenever field position allows. Referees are stricter on mid-air contact than ever before, so opposite man Mariner will need to be alert and wily to shut Coates down. He gives away almost 10 centimetres in height to the Storm winger, making that task more difficult.
*REECE WALSH v EVERYONE
It will take an entire team to neutralise the Broncos' marquee man. Walsh produced one of the great finals performances in their week-one win over Canberra, and threw the pass to Mariner that ultimately allowed Reynolds to seal last week's game. Walsh's form towards the end of this season has been reminiscent of Jarryd Hayne in 2009 or Ben Barba in 2012; two other fullbacks who had the Midas touch at just the right time. His electric pace, skill and knack for being in the right place at the right time could turn this game on its head.
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