SPORTPORT

SUNNY MAX MIN

FIFITA

WHis charges through middle of the ruck and his offloads are key.

GALLEN (C)

More a support act now than the forward spearhead he once was. Expect Tagataese to make his comeback from his busted shoulder today. STORM

LEWIS MALONEY

SHARKS His big-game experience will be crucial. Star playmaker shapes as Cronulla’s most important player.

GRAHAM ENNIS

His combination with Maloney will be vital. He has been ruled out by Shane Flanagan, but who knows?

tonight 7.15pm TOWNSEND FEKI

Toned down his infamous niggle against the Cowboys and it worked.

BIRD

Provides cover for a number of positions. Can make late impact.

THE X-FACTOR

Cronulla fullback Ben Barba has this year rediscovered the form that saw himhimwinwin the Dally M in 2012. Ironically, that year he was playing for the Bulldogs and played in a losing grand final against Storm. If he gets half a sniff he could prove the difference in what is expected to be a tight game. Under-rated winger who returns the ball strongly and can score a try. A bundle of energy and aggression in attack andd defence.

BEN BARBA

More than capable of breaking down the Storm’s defensive wall.

LEUTELE

Leutele’s defence and hard running are his greatest attributes.

HOLMES

Tackle-busting speedster is a dangerous player out wide in attack. ck.

CHRIS HEIGHINGTON

His offload can open up second phase play for Maloney or Barba.

KURT CAPEWELL

Youngster Capewell has impressed in his few NRL games so far.

NICK SMART’S VERDICT

Grand Finals are all about executing the big moments and that is Storm’s trademark.t The start is crucial and Storm must not allow Cronulla to skip out to an early lead. Melbourne is the best frontrunner in the NRL, but it also struggles to chase points when behind. If Storm canc grab an early lead, put the champagnec on ice because no team is better when in front.

JAYSON BUKUYA

An honest toiler who loves to tackle.