Super-sub Hale excited for Semi Finals clash

Georgia Hale has played almost every position on the field this NRLW season.

From prop to hooker, back-row and even in the halves... she has become the ultimate No. 14 for the Titans over the last few weeks.

The New Zealand International even had a stint filling up the water bottles in last week's final round clash against the Knights, itching to still want to be involved despite being sidelined due to a crusher tackle.

"I just wanted to be there for the girls, so I think I just tried to take as many roles in the sheds as I could. Like I was just doing things unnecessarily to just try and keep busy," Hale said.

"I think I can speak on behalf of any girl that's forced to sit on the sidelines. We're itching to be out there, but I think I tried to just flip it around and see it as a positive.

"It gave another girl an opportunity to put a jersey on and run out there and do their job and I could sit on the sideline and watch and admire the amazing skill and talent across our playing group.

"It was definitely hard, but I'm excited to be back this weekend."

Her enthusiastic and infectious positive energy makes her a perfect leader for the youthful Titans side and her experience and attitude is a welcomed addition back to the club's grand final ambition, especially in that role of being the versatile super sub, able to answer the calling for whatever role coach Jamie Feeney needs the experienced NRLW representative to play.

"I've honestly really enjoyed [the utility role]. I think now I have such an appreciation for all the other positions that make up the 13 girls that take the field," Hale said.

"I've had a bit of a stint at prop, hooker, lock, halves... I think as I've moved around the field, I've really understood what those roles require.

"I guess, looking when I combine with other players, I appreciate the job that they're doing, and I guess like the role that they're responsible out there.

"I've really enjoyed the learnings behind it and really understanding the utility role and then seeing what I personally can add to the No. 14 jersey."

After 13 appearances, Sunday's semi-final against the Dragons will be the 26-year-old's first ever NRLW final, and she is bursting with excitement to take the field in Sydney. 

"It kind of feels a little bit weird saying finals, but I think we really deserve to be here and we've worked hard to be here," Hale said.

"For some of us girls that haven't made an appearance in finals footy, we've been working towards it this season and in the previous seasons that we've all been lucky to be a part of.

"It's been an exciting week. The best thing that we have done is just slowed down and appreciated all the small moments.

"I know the game is going to be really important, but I think all these smaller moments away from the field make a difference and add to what we're going to produce on the weekend, so I'm thoroughly looking forward."

Going into the do-or-die encounter with the momentum of two straight wins, Hale knows the side wants to win well to continue the ascendency to the grand final at Redcliffe, but also believes grinding out the two points last Sunday will also prove beneficial.