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Rhinos and Saints ready for Super League finale
Rugby League, 10:53, October 10, 2009 ,
Leeds Rhinos and St Helens will both be almost at full strength for their Super League Grand Final clash at Old Trafford on Saturday.
The Rhinos, who finished top of the table at the end of the regular season, go into the match aiming to create history and become the first team to win three successive titles. And apart from hooker Danny Buderus, who is missing with a long-term injury, coach Brian McClennan should have a full squad to pick from as full-back Brent Webb and second-rower Ali Lauitiiti are fit from a knock and illness respectively.
Ahead of the game McClennan said: "It's a magnificent venue and it will be a terrific match between the two top teams after 27 rounds and the play-offs.
"This is the third time we've met in the final, so there is a real history. I'm sure everybody that comes along is going to enjoy the contest."
The Saints are aiming to gain revenge over Leeds having lost the past two Grand Finals and coach Mick Potter insists veteran Keiron Cunningham will play, despite a hairline fracture in his hand.
"He'll be offered medical advice but I don't think anyone will tell Keiron he's not playing in a Grand Final, regardless of the outcome of the scan," he said.
Matt Gidley and Tony Puletua are both are expected to feature despite being hampered by respective groin and shoulder problems.
The game will also see scrum-half Sean Long play his last game for Saints after a successful 12-year career at Knowsley Road. The 33-year-old will join Super League rivals Hull next season.