Berkers grins and Bears it all again
THE last time Burleigh were on a charge to the Intrust Super Cup premiership, there was heartbreak in store for Josh Berkers.
The youngster played in Burleigh’s 2016 grand final qualifier victory but missed the title match through a mix of Olly Regan’s return from injury and an injury of his own.
This time around, the right centre spot is all his as the Bears square off with Easts at Pizzey Park today for the right to play Redcliffe in the decider. “He has well and truly cemented his spot,” coach Jimmy Lenihan said of Berkers.
“He has done more than enough to keep his spot; now it is just a matter of Josh believing that he does belong, which I think he is starting to get that confidence.”
Berkers, 22, conceded selfbelief had not been his strong point over the years.
“I’m not always the most confident player or person so he (Lenihan) just tries to build up my confidence,” he said.
“I think (my game has improved since 2016) but it is probably more to do with confidence.
“I have just not worried too much about games, even before games not getting nervous any more, it sort of makes you play better.”
Though the team lists have Berkers marking up on Shane Neumann, Melbourne Storm centre Cheyse Blair is expected to be the man directly opposite him today.
With Sam Kasiano also in the mix to don Tigers colours, Burleigh are expecting a far stiffer challenge than when they belted Easts 48-18 three weeks ago.
“They were a bit soft obviously in the last round and we beat them pretty comfortably but they are probably going to have some Melbourne players back this week and I’d say they will be a lot more intense,” Berkers said.
“There’s a lot to play for. It will be a pretty physical game.”
Burleigh forward Jeff Burleigh Easts $1.65 $2.25 Lynch has been ruled out, having been in hospital this week with a knee infection, while second-rower Jamie Dowling and winger Henare Wells must pass fitness tests to play.
Jesse Savage will replace Lynch; Tyler Sparkes and Toby McIntosh are ready to cover Dowling and Wells, respectively.
The match marks the first finals game at Pizzey since 2005. The Bears have good memories from their last sudden death clash with the Tigers – the famous 2004 grand final that Burleigh won deep into extra time.