Paully's Picks - 2010 NRL Grand Final

St George Illawarra Dragons v Sydney Roosters

A tremendous game of rugby league awaits us all on Sunday at 5.00pm EST from ANZ Stadium in Homebush.

The minor premiers, St George Illawarra, come into this match with one of the best defensive records ever seen and have based their run for title on this impressive achievement: Try-saving tackles, winning the ruck, excellent wrestling techniques and an overall desire to protect their try line at any cost. Mobile defensive weapons like Neville Costigan and Dean Young have led the way in this regard whilst Beau Scott and Matt Cooper have also lived up to their reputations as defensive specialists. It has all led to the Saints allowing only 2 tries per game over the course of 2010. Remarkable.

The Sydney Roosters, however, have made it this far through outstanding play from their spine. Born again Jake Friend and Todd Carney have combined beautifully with Mitchell Pearce and the walking miracle, Anthony Minichiello. Their attack is creative and makes good use of many weapons in the chook's arsenal. A dominant performance against the Titans last week has given more credit to their defence and this will be the key against the Dragons on Sunday.

So, my very good friends, strap in and get comfortable as this will be a hard fought, nail-biting close encounter of two old rivals. The 2010 premiership will be decided in the final 10 minutes of this match where, historically, the minor premiers have been able to pile on the points in many of their matches when the opposition has been sufficiently destroyed. However on this occasion, I’m tipping that the Roosters get the better of them with an attack that still has legs in the dying moments and carries them to the Telstra Premiership by a feather.

Experience is always a benefit in big games so keep an eye out for Nate Myles and Braith Anasta to lead the way for the Bondi boys, whilst Mark Gasnier and Jeremy Smith will be standouts for the Dragons. Whilst you have your eye on them, keep an eye on Saints fans anywhere around you. They will be half expecting something very very bad to happen and half feeling quietly confident. It is a joy being a Rugby League fan at this time of year and good luck to both clubs on the greatest day, in the Greatest Game of All.

Tip: Roosters 16-12
Clive Churchill Medallist: Anthony Minichiello