As the BLK Dewar Shield moves into the finals, we take a look at how the top two teams arrived in the top four.

(1) HARLEQUINS

This Harlequin’s team has had a stellar year. Going undefeated all season, having a points difference of +398 and acquiring 14 Bonus Points in that time, they look to be the team beat. This undefeated run is made all the more impressive by the average age of the team. This year has seen Harlequin consistently field a young side, who have shown maturity beyond their years and rewarded their coaches faith in their abilities. Melbourne Rebels U20’s star Mahe Vailanu has had another standout year for Harlequins and has been one of the key young leaders of the side. In 2017, Harlequins look to take this form into the Finals and go one better after last years’ Dewar Shield Grand Final loss to their opponents this coming weekend, Melbourne.

Form: WWBWW

Key Stats:

– Won 16 out of 16 games
– +398 Points Difference
– 14 four try Bonus Points
– Accumulated 87 total competition points out of a possible 88

(2) MELBOURNE

Melbourne has had a impressive season this year, despite dropping a couple of games. The 2016 Dewar Shield winners lost only 4 games this year, while having a points difference of +308 and claiming 9 Bonus Points. Encounters between these two sides in 2017 have been come down to the wire, with Quins coming away with the points on both occasions. After losing a majority of their starting 15 from last years Premiership, this match will test if this new look side can go all the way. Electric winger Matai Nairavu has been crossing the line consistently this year for the side and will be a danger out wide on the weekend. The side will be wanting to repeat last years efforts in 2017.

Form: LLWBW

Key Stats:

– Won 12 out of 16 games this season
– +308 points difference
– 10 Bonus Points

Source: Rebels Media Unit