The Illawarra Steelers are within reach of back-to-back SG Ball titles, after beating the Roosters to qualify for the grand final.
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The Steelers won the under 19 title in 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions forced the competition to be abandoned last year.
Still, fullback Tyrell Sloan, playmaker Junior Amone and forwards Joshua Coric and Trent Griffiths remain in the squad chasing a second SG Ball crown.
The Steelers conceded two late tries but marched into the decider with a 42-32 win over the Roosters in Sydney.
They will now play Canberra on Saturday.
"Going back-to-back is not something we've spoken about, but it's just a great reward for all the hard work they've put in," coach Glenn Buffolin said.
"It's a different group, even though there are a few players there from 2019.
"They just work hard for each other and play what's in front of them.
"They're different squads from when we played Canberra earlier in the season, it should be a great contest."
The Raiders beat the Steelers 36-10 earlier this year, as Illawarra remarkably finished sixth on the ladder despite losing just two of their eight games. Illawarra thrashed Souths 46-14 in an elimination final before overpowering the Roosters on Saturday.
Buffolin is optimistic several players are destined to be part of future Dragons squads.
"A lot of them deserve it," he said.
"I know they'll filter into the Jersey Flegg system, but hopefully some will earn a train and trial or development contract. They've done such a great job."
It comes as Collegians remained unbeaten in the President's Cup competition with a gritty 26-14 victory over Thirroul at Gibson Park.
The Butchers jumped to a 10-nil lead, but Collies replied with two tries before half-time to be ahead by two at the break.
In the other game, Wests showed their attacking strike, as centres Brock Sepulveda (three) and Colby Pellow (two) led the way in a 42-22 win over Corrimal.
Elsewhere, Helensburgh were beaten 14-6 in the NSW women's premiership, with Jessica Sergis scoring their only try.
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Tim Barrow
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
