Blake Steep and Hugo Savala on who wins this weekend
In this episode of Kenny Prime Time, Paul Kent sits down with Sydney Roosters young guns Blake Steep and Hugo Savala to preview the NRL preliminary finals, breaking down both matchups with insight from inside the Roosters’ camp.
The conversation begins with the scheduling dynamic. The panel agrees that the winner of Friday night’s clash between the Melbourne Storm and the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks will hold a slight but meaningful advantage over whoever progresses from Sunday’s showdown between the Brisbane Broncos and the Penrith Panthers. Two extra days of recovery and preparation at this stage of the season, they argue, can make a significant difference in physical readiness and tactical clarity.
Storm versus Sharks
Steep highlights Cronulla’s improved line speed and defensive cohesion as their most dangerous weapon, noting how connected they’ve looked in recent weeks. However, the presence of returning Melbourne stars — Jerome Hughes, Ryan Papenhuyzen and Cameron Munster — shifts the balance. If the Storm can control the ruck and dictate tempo, the panel agrees they deserve favoritism.
Turning to Broncos versus Panthers, Savala points out that while Nathan Cleary remains elite in his instinctive, “eyes-up” decision making, Reece Walsh is currently operating in a sweet spot of confidence. Brisbane’s plan will revolve around starting fast at Suncorp Stadium and riding early momentum, though the absence of Patrick Carrigan through the middle looms as a serious challenge.
The Roosters' Season & Culture
Reflecting on their own campaign with the Sydney Roosters, both players address the rebuild narrative that surrounded the club after a difficult start to the year. They credit coach Trent Robinson for maintaining unwavering belief in the group, pointing to the foundations laid during preseason as critical to their mid-season resurgence.
Steep describes Robinson as a leader who doesn’t rely on volume but on conviction, built around pillars of belief, heart and connection. The pair share a memorable anecdote illustrating his motivational presence — Robinson once delivering a dressing-room-style speech to former Knights players during a trek to Mount Everest base camp, a story that underlines the emotional authority he carries.
Savala also discusses his own on-field development, particularly the steep learning curve involved in transitioning into the halves. Guidance from veterans such as James Tedesco, combined with the simplicity and clarity of Robinson’s game plans, helped accelerate that adjustment and build confidence in a new role.
The "DCE" Rumors & Hugo Savala’s Future
Inevitably, the discussion turns to speculation surrounding Daly Cherry-Evans and rumours that he could join the Roosters, potentially reshaping Savala’s position within the squad. Savala speaks candidly about the uncertainty, admitting he feels “in limbo” and may not have clarity until the November 1 transfer window opens.
While he expresses a strong desire to remain at the club as an “East boy,” he acknowledges that his management is exploring all avenues, including the possibility of a loan arrangement similar to Harry Grant’s stint with the Tigers earlier in his career. Above all, Savala emphasises his competitive drive. He wants to remain at NRL level, to compete week in and week out, and to play his best football rather than return to State Cup.
Finals Predictions
When it comes to predictions, Steep tips a Grand Final between the Storm and the Panthers. Savala leans toward an upset, backing the Broncos to overcome Penrith and set up a decider against Melbourne. Paul Kent ultimately sides with the Storm as favourites but cautions that the Sharks’ upward trajectory makes them a genuine wildcard capable of disrupting expectations.
The full episode is available on Fanatics TV.
