The Rabbitohs and Bulldogs look to have the edge heading into this weekend's Preliminary Finals with fans and members of both teams snapping up tickets in record time.
Rabbitohs fans have counted for 60 per cent of all tickets sold for Friday night's clash against fierce rivals the Sydney Roosters, while the Bulldogs army hold a slight edge over the Panthers securing 57 per cent of all tickets sold for Saturday night's blockbuster.
The thrill and excitement won't be limited to the field of play with Shannon Noel, Friday night, and Shepherd, Saturday night, set to rock ANZ Stadium. The precinct area will also be lit up for fans with entertainers such as roving bands, a DJ, LED hula-hoop artists and neon stilt walkers, for all to enjoy.
NRL Head of Commercial Paul Kind praised the effort of club members getting in early to purchase tickets while encouraging fans of all teams to get to ANZ Stadium and experience the action live.
"We have experienced one of the closest Finals Series on record and the stage is set for two explosive match-ups this weekend," Mr Kind said.
"Rabbitohs and Bulldogs supporters may hold the balance of power in terms of ticket sales at the moment but I have no doubt Roosters and Panthers fans will go close to squaring the ledger before kick-off.
"With integrated transport available, there really isn't an excuse for fans of all teams to get their tickets now to secure a seat for what is certain to be a memorable weekend of finals footy."
Rabbitohs captain John Sutton welcomed news his teams members and fans were leading the charge, declaring their support could prove the difference between winning and losing.
"There is nothing more inspirational than looking around and seeing a packed crowd decked out in red and green," Sutton said.
"Our members and fans are the heart and soul of the club and I know they will be there with us every step of the way on Friday night."
Integrated transport will be available across the Sydney train network with every pre purchased ticket to receive complimentary travel.
The service will extend as far as Bomaderry, Goulburn, Bathurst and Dungog stations.
For more information and to plan your journey please visit www.sydneytrains.info.
Tickets to both Preliminary Finals matches this weekend are now on sale, starting at $40 for adults, $20 for children and $90 for families. Fans can purchase tickets at www.ticketek.com.au/nrlfinals or by calling 132 849 or by visiting a Ticketek outlet.
NRL Telstra Premiership Finals Series – Week 3
Preliminary Final: Friday, September 26, 7.55pm, ANZ Stadium
NRL: South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters
5.15pm Holden Cup: St George-Illawarra Dragons v Brisbane Broncos
Preliminary Final: Saturday, September 27, 7.55pm, ANZ Stadium
NRL: Penrith Panthers v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
5.15pm Holden Cup: Parramatta Eels v New Zealand Warriors