Sydney Uni and Wallaroos prop Bridie O'Gorman hopes a home grand final can be the key to taking the Students one step further than 2023 as they prepare to face off against Manly for the Jack Scott Cup.
Uni have been perfect in 2024 after winning all 15 regular season games of the competition before sweeping past Warringah 49-5 in the semi-finals.
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O'Gorman is one of several Test stars set to feature in Saturday's Final, with the likes of former Test captain Piper Duck, Brianna Hoy, Sera Naiqama and recent Wallaroos call-up Brittany Merlo coming off the bench in last week's win.
“The pressure is on to win but that comes with the territory and if we stay relaxed and play the system, we’ll be fine," O'Gorman told Rugby.com.au
“It’s something I don’t really look too much into at clubland, that’s more where I can have a bit more fun playing footy and be a bit more relaxed.”
The return to Sydney Uni for the decider is also welcomed off the back of last year's disappointing defeat to Easts at North Sydney Oval.
“It was disappointing not to win last year but you’ve got to go in feeling confident and positive,” O’Gorman said.
“This is my ninth season at Sydney Uni and I’ve had finals at Rats (Pittwater Park), North Sydney Oval and Concord but never a home grand final.
“It’s a good feeling (around the team).”
Manly have named exciting teenager Waiaria Ellis at fullback, who has impressed in Wallaroos camp over the past weeks, with former Rebels lock Tiarah Minns providing quality to the pack.
The Final will prove as one last hitout before the Wallaroos involved head to Europe to face Wales and Ireland in pre-WXV matches.
“It’s good to come together as a whole group and squad where we can connect and build our camaraderie away from the field," O'Gorman added.
“Our results so far this year have been pretty disappointing but there’s good energy in this team and we want different outcomes for the hard work we’re putting in.”
