With plenty riding on Friday night's blockbuster against the Broncos, Storm fullback Billy Slater says it feels like finals have come a week early.
Both Melbourne and Brisbane cannot afford to lose their final round encounter with both sides needing victory to guarantee a finals berth.
"Personally, my preparation, this feels like the first final," Slater said.
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"There's probably about three games this weekend where the game has an impact on the finals series.
"It's just that time of year, the sun is out, it was a beautiful day at training today and we trained really well.
"It's a huge occasion and hopefully we can get a lot of support here at AAMI Park tomorrow night and play some good footy."
The fullback explained his side are not getting caught up in any of the surrounding scenarios about potential hypotheticals and are concentrating on winning against the Broncos to secure a finals berth.
"We're certainly not looking back at the season and what could have been, we're fully focused on tomorrow night," Slater said.
"There are a few different scenarios that could happen but first and foremost our focus is on our preparation and that's the most important thing for us.
"I think subconsciously you're certainly more focused because your season is on the line.
"When there is the opportunity of it being your last game of the year you certainly are not going to leave anything in the tank."
