Dragons out to defy odds in do-or-die grand final rematch

St George Illawarra winger Tiana Penitani needs little reminding of the state of play to keep the side's NRL Telstra Women's Premiership hopes alive at Bankwest Stadium on Saturday.

A win over two-time defending champions Brisbane will go a long way towards their hopes of making amends for last year's grand final result and set up a final round to savour. 

A loss and their grand final chances will appear all but over given the shortness of the competition in play.

"Obviously it was a disappointing start to our campaign last week and has made it a little bit harder for us in such a cut-throat competition," Penitani told NRL.com.

"But we did it last year against the Warriors in round two and were able to turn the table. I think we take a lot of positives and definitely work on the negatives.

"We've definitely got the team to do it so it's a matter of wiping the slate clean. I think it's really important to not get flustered."

What the Dragons have been reminded of this week was their 30-6 loss to the Broncos on the big stage last year, to go with a 14-4 defeat and 30-4 loss to the Queensland side for an 0-3 record.

To put it bluntly, they'll have to go against NRLW history and produce the game of their lives.  

"We've got players who have been in high-pressure situations, I think it's important to not put ourselves under too much pressure," Penitani said.

"There definitely needs to be some sort of attitude adjustment. They're a star-studded team and wear a lot of pressure on their shoulders being the defending premiers.

"We know how to beat them but it's a matter of who turns up on the day."

So, how do you beat them?

"We have to play smart footy and beat them at their own game," Penitani said.

"They've got a lot of experience and incredible players. Ali Brigginshaw's one of the best in the game and they've got a strong pack.

"A lot of teams try to attack us through the middle. We've got quite a few fresh faces but on paper, we're probably matched."

Dragons co-captain Kezie Apps (head knock), Jess Sergis (ankle), Maddie Studdon (ankle) and Shakiah Tungai (shoulder) remain a strong chance to play despite nursing injuries this week.

The quartet have been limited at training with Dragons coach Daniel Lacey keeping Rikeya Horne and Georgia Page on standby in the reserves.

Sign up for a free NRL Account to access this video and other exclusive content.

Sign Up

Already have an NRL Account?

Log In

Not sure?   Learn more about an NRL Account .