Bears vs Cutters BMD Prelim Final Pre Game Report ✍🏼 Michael Nunn

But so does knowing exactly what it takes when the season suddenly becomes about surviving.

That is where the UAA Burleigh Bears believe they have an advantage.

They head into Saturday’s BMD Premiership finals opener against the Mackay Cutters having won three of their past five, while the Cutters have won four of their past five.

On paper, that might give Mackay the slight edge.

But Burleigh is not particularly interested in what the paper says.

They have been waiting for this part of the season for 12 months.

And they arrive with a fullback who looks more than ready to make September her playground.

Sienna Laing was sensational in the Bears’ last outing two weeks ago

When Laing gets the ball in open space, defenders tend to have a very short window to make a good decision.

Usually, they don’t.

The Bears don’t simply have a fullback who can finish.

They have one who can start the chaos.

And in finals football, chaos can be very useful.

The Bears forwards will be looking to get forward and give Laing as much field position and space as possible.

Ruby Fifita has entered the chat.

The Bears front rower has had an outstanding year and her role on Saturday will be simple but must be done.

Fifita is up for the challenge.

The Bears will be taking the blueprint from their last game and reapply it against the Cutters. They didn’t have enough ball, but what they did have they used well.

Seven tries and 11-line breaks and 55 tackle breaks will win you games and especially finals games.

12 missed tackles will win you minds, hearts and finals.