Cooper Cronk is heading to AAMI Park in enemy colours for the first time on Friday for one of the most anticipated grand final rematches in some time.
The Storm and Roosters head into the Good Friday showdown sitting first and second on the ladder and in relatively good health, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
Dale Finucane, who will be playing his 100th game for the Storm, said he thinks Cronk will still receive a warm reception from the crowd despite being in Roosters colours.
“I think he’ll receive a really positive reception,” Finucane said.
“He’s got such a great legacy at this club and he left here on such good terms to be with his wife and family.
"I think our fans will respect him and give him a good reception because he’s done so much for this club and he’ll always be a part of the Storm. He played over 300 games for the club and he's a key figure in their history.”
Last year’s decider was a turning point in Luke Keary’s career. He has since taken his game to new heights, but Finucane says it would be silly to focus solely on the Roosters’ five-eighth.
“Luke Keary is probably eyeing off an Origin debut given the form he’s in at the moment, while Cooper Cronk’s reputation speaks for itself," Finucane said.
"Keary is one of their strongest players, but you have to focus on everyone.”
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