Robinson confident Roosters won't fall short in 2018

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson is confident the club won't fall short for the fourth time in five seasons at the preliminary final stages against South Sydney at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night.

The Tricolours have slipped up on three occasions in grand final qualifiers to the Rabbitohs, Broncos and Cowboys since 2014.

Their latest preliminary final loss against last year's eighth-placed Cowboys hit hardest given North Queensland were without Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott.

Robinson was quick to dismiss the notion that the Roosters were under more pressure than their rivals leading into the grudge match.

"We're a different squad, people can see and feel that," Robinson said.

"That's what experiences are about ... learning and growing. That's what we plan to do. We're sitting in a good position and now it's time to deliver tomorrow night.

"This is why we do the job, you love this moment. You're focused on the end of the season. Now we're here you're mad if you don't want to be here."

Robinson offered a different memory when talking about the closing of Allianz Stadium and his memories of the precinct.

The Tricolours are eager to send out their venue in style with a grand final qualifying win over arch-rivals South Sydney but Robinson recalled a game in 1997 where an announcement was made over the speaker that stood out.

"It's been our home for 30-odd years and played more games than anyone here," Robinson said.

"It's been a special place for fans, players and supporters. A bit of an end of an era here. I remember princess [Diana] dies getting announced over the stadium in 1997 in the middle of a reserve grade game.

"I remember that, I've never seen the stadium in shock during that time. There's been some big games I've seen the Roosters play. The Monday night games when they got bought in the late 90s were big games here. Anzac Day, finals games ... there's been some special moments here."

The Roosters squad spent a sleepover night at the venue in the pre-season to connect with their spiritual home. They're now one win away from a grand final berth.

"It was a sleeping bag out on the stadium, we had movie night," Robinson said.

"Some special moment stuff. We touched on it briefly and wanting to send it out in the right way. It's a small one percenter there and little things which you wouldn't know. We wanted to experience it more.

"We've worked hard this year and built and delivered and grown as a team and club. I expect us to play well and go after what we want in the game. The result will take care of itself."