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Cronulla halfback Chad Townsend wasn't impressed by Shane Flanagan's decision to hook him from the field against the Raiders a fortnight ago, but insists he always respected the coach's decision.

Rugby league players will have direct input into the next collective bargaining agreement after they were polled about their priorities for the upcoming negotiations.

A stint in rehab has Paul Carter ready to face his demons and primed for another shot at NRL redemption.

South Sydney were one of the clubs that made discreet enquiries about Kieran Foran, although its the negotiations with one of the other suitors he rejected that are the most intriguing.

With the NRL wrapping up next Sunday, grand final week is underway as fans flock ready themselves for the blockbuster at ANZ Stadium.

Raiders centre Joey Leilua is someone the Storm don't want to wake from a slumber.

Cronulla have paid an emotional tribute to Ron Massey, dedicating their win over North Queensland in Friday's grand final qualifier to the rugby league coaching legend.

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The best way to describe Friday night's events at Allianz Stadium is to say it was indescribable.

As league fans prepare for next weekend's grand final, we recap the stories that dominated the headlines in another dramatic year of NRL football.

Chad Townsend received a text message shortly after the ignominy of being a halfback hooked against Canberra in the second match of the finals. It read: "Good luck mate, we're all behind you." It is still unknown whether its origin was Lachlan Coote.

It was one-way traffic on Friday night as Cronulla strolled into the grand final - and really, the whole game will be a highlight for their fans. Despite this, here a few of the most magical moments from their SCORELINE victory. 

Cronulla have just another nine days between them and a chance to end 49 years of false starts and false hope, knocking out the reigning premiers with a 32-20 victory.

They're the great mates who will enjoy a beer together after the game.

Joey Leilua hasn't been able to wipe the smile off his face all season, but 18 months ago he hated his life. He was fat and he knew it. Problem was, he didn't care.

Raiders legend Alan Tongue predicts big things for Canberra captain Jarrod Croker.

Former Raider Sandor Earl says the "Leipana" highlights reel is getting more and more "ridiculous".

The many faces of Sia Soliola – warrior, leader, mentor, community worker, ambassador, budding comedian.

Triple premiership player Steve Walters says the Raiders are "truly capable" of ending their premiership drought.

He signed a scholarship with the Raiders when he was just 12, now he's pinching himself before a preliminary final.