It's the final week leading up to the big dance for the 2024 NRL season, featuring two thrilling finals that will decide which two teams will be eliminated.ย 

Let's take a look back at how these teams performed when they last faced off during the regular season.ย 

1Cronulla Sharks v Penrith Panthers

NRL Semi Final - Sharks v Cowboys
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Sione Katoa of the Sharks celebrates with team mates after scoring a try, which was later disallowed by the video bunker during the NRL Semi Final match between Cronulla Sharks and North Queensland Cowboys at Allianz Stadium on September 20, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

The Cronulla Sharks have shown they're ready for finals football after a commanding performance against the Cowboys last week. With this victory, they advance to their first preliminary final since 2018, when they were eliminated by the Storm.

This week, they face off against the finals experts, the Penrith Panthers, who are making their fifth consecutive appearance in a preliminary final. The Panthers have a strong motivation to secure a fourth premiership, aiming to send off Nathan Cleary's halfback partner, Jarome Luai, in style.

Round 12: 0 Sharks - 42 Panthersย 

The Panthers showcased their dominance at the Sharks' home ground, PointsBet Stadium, with an early try from James Fisher-Harris in the 4th minute. Jarome Luai followed up just four minutes later with another try.

Paul Alamoti added to the score in the 25th minute, shortly before Dylan Edwards found the corner of the end zone. Jack Cole capped off a commanding first half with a try right before the break, leaving the Panthers with a staggering 28-0 lead.

The Sharks desperately sought a comeback in the second half, but the Panthers continued to demonstrate their skill, with Liam Henry scoring off a Sharks error. Scott Sorensen added another try, and the Sharks were unable to find the try line themselves, resulting in a clean sweep victory for the Panthers at 42-0.

Next