Things haven’t quite gone to plan for Mick Snowden in 2016.

The former Eastwood and NSW Country halfback joined the Melbourne Rebels extended playing squad ahead of the Super Rugby season but has struggled for game time, playing behind Nic Stirzaker and Ben Meehan.

The 28-year old Tamworth junior earned two Super Rugby caps earlier this year and has spent most of the season playing with Melbourne in the Dewar Shield.

Tomorrow, Snowden and the Unicorns face defending premiers Harlequins in the grand final.

“Obviously I would have liked to play a bit less Dewar Shield and a bit more Super Rugby but that’s just the way the cards fell. I’ve really enjoyed it though and was pleasantly surprised by the standard of the competition,” Snowden said.

“There is a really good bunch of guys at Melbourne, we’ve got a really good coach so that has made things a whole lot easier.”

While Snowden admitted it had been a frustrating season, he was confident his rugby had improved through his time with the Rebels.

“At the end of the day, one of the No.9’s is the captain and the other has been in outstanding form, there isn’t much more to it. Unfortunately, I’m behind two halfbacks that are playing really good footy.

“It’s certainly helped having Craig McGrath down here, he’s a specialist No.9 coach. He’s worked a lot with me on my own game and I’d like to think I’m a much better player then when I first showed up here,” he said.

Snowden, who was named in the Melbourne Rising NRC squad this morning, has played both halfback and flyhalf for Melbourne this year, but will wear the No.9 jersey on Saturday.

“I much prefer No.9 because I’m a lot more comfortable but I’ve enjoyed having a run at 10, it’s been a lot of fun and it’s good to add to my skillset,” Snowden said.

Harlequins beat Melbourne 27-0 in the major semi final a fortnight ago and are one win away from their fourth straight Dewar Shield title.

“We just need to worry on our own game. We’ve got some good outside backs so hopefully they get plenty of ball,” Snowden said.

“Most the games this year have been quite open, the boys like to throw the ball around a fair bit but grand finals aren’t usually like that so it will be interesting to see how the match is played.

“It’s always exciting to play for a premiership. I’ve spent a fair bit of time with these guys this year so it would be fantastic to win. “