Soward: Storm reign in rain; Bunnies battle on

We're down to the final four after two more teams bowed out of the premiership race. Melbourne made a statement, while the Rabbitohs staggered over the finish line against Manly to keep their season alive.

1. Sydney Roosters (Last week: 1)

They've had a week to get over some bumps and bruises and enjoy a couple of coffees down at Bondi. Now they get the chance to play Melbourne and they'll be working out a plan as to how they're going to attack them. It should be a great contest between two outstanding teams and the winner of this game wins the grand final.

2. Canberra Raiders (2)

They've had the week off and had time to freshen up. Now they can start cranking up preparations for the club's biggest game in the last 20-odd years. It'll be a huge occasion on their home ground against Souths and they won't want to let this golden opportunity slip through their fingers.

3. Melbourne Storm (4)

Flexed their muscles on Saturday at a wet AAMI Park and were able to execute against a team they were expected to beat, and they looked a lot more comfortable and confident in the way they went about their business. It was a more free-flowing effort from the Storm and they didn't look as tense as they did the previous week.

4. Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (5)

An outstanding effort and probably should've won the game, but unfortunately, some big moments cost them. They'll learn from the experience. A fantastic season for Manly and Des Hasler and once they're back at full strength they'll certainly become contenders again.

5. South Sydney Rabbitohs (6)

It might be a bit controversial to have them at five but they weren't at their best and they looked tired and were a bit lucky to get away with that game. They're a team that needs everyone having their best game and can't have anyone off, whereas some of the other teams can still have one or two players off and still get away with it.

6. Parramatta Eels (3)

Despite their best intentions they probably showed they're still not a top calibre team. They've got a long way to go if they're going to be taking that next step and need to prove they can win consistently on the road, but it was a great season for the Eels and they should gain valuable experience from playing in the finals.

The views in this article do not necessarily express the opinions of the NRL, ARLC, NRL clubs or state associations