Sunday 28 September 2014 12:26, UK
England internationals Sam Burgess and James Graham will go head-to-head in next Sunday’s NRL Grand Final following victories for South Sydney Rabbitohs and Canterbury Bulldogs.
The Rabbitohs toppled city rivals the Roosters 32-22 on Friday with the Bulldogs then joining them in the final on Saturday following an 18-12 success over Penrith Panthers.
For ex-Bradford Bull Burgess, who is switching codes at the end of the season and joining Bath in the Aviva Premiership, it is his first-ever Grand Final.
The 25-year-old is now focused on his showdown with fellow England compatriot Graham, formerly of St Helens, stating he is only looking to enjoy the next seven days.
“I’m just pretty excited,” Burgess told the Rabbitohs’ official website.
“I’ve been playing a while and this is my first Grand Final - I think I’ve played in six prelims so it’s finally good to be on the winning end.
“For me personally, it’s my last week and a half here, I’m just going to enjoy the process and enjoy the functions that I have to do with the guys - just try and enjoy every moment.”
Graham, who is among the contenders to lead England for the upcoming Four Nations tournament following the retirement of Kevin Sinfield from international duty, is not reading too much into his mouth-watering showdown with his compatriot.
“I reckon honestly, there is not as much in it as people say,” Graham said.
I’ve been playing a while and this is my first Grand Final - I think I’ve played in six prelims so it’s finally good to be on the winning end.
“He plays in the middle, I play in the middle. It's only because we tackle each other. I have to do my job for my team and stick to the game plan.”
Meanwhile, the Rabbitohs will be hoping to have hooker Issac Luke available for Sunday’s game as they plan to contest his grade one dangerous throw charge.
Luke was cited for his throw on Sonny Bill Williams in the 38th minute against the Roosters. A statement from Souths confirmed they will head to League Central on Tuesday to "strenuously fight the charge.”.
Michael Ennis looks set to be ruled out of the game with fractures in his foot. The Bulldogs captain suffered the blow in an accident clash with team-mate Frank Pritchard, although the club are giving him every chance to play.
“The club’s medical staff will work overtime with Michael to give him every chance of playing next week in the grand final, but the early indications are that he is facing an uphill battle to play,” read a Bulldogs statement
