By Tom Primmer

It’s do or die in the Hospital Challenge Cup as the finals series begins at Yoku Road this weekend.

After a month off due to Brisbane’s COVID lockdown and subsequent restrictions, UQ were crowned minor premiers, meaning they’ll face fourth-placed Brothers with the winner stamping their ticket to the Grand Final at Suncorp Stadium.

The Heavies have named a well-rounded side to take on their historical rivals, with youth and plenty of title winning experience intertwined throughout the 23.

Super Rugby stalwart James Hanson will start in the front row, with skipper Pat Morrey and the abrasive Connor Vest behind him at locks.

Lona Halaholo provides x-factor at number-eight, while the Oates bothers – Kye and BJ – combine with Mac Grealy in an electric back three.

Former Wallaby captain Stephen Moore, Brad Kapa, TJ Siakisini and Mosiah Christian will come on as finishers as the Students look to punish their opposition in the second half.

Uni assistant coach Elton Berrange said his side is raring to go after over a month off due to restrictions.

“Brothers have been good this season and we’ve had two really tough battles against them. They’ve got so many threats around the park,” Berrange said.

“It’s helpful having so much experience. The majority of our team have been involved in finals and of course Heeno has enormous experience over more than a decade.

“Playing a knockout game after five weeks off is unique though. We’ve replicated the intensity at training as best we can.”

The Brethren have been bolstered by the return of Lawson Creighton, who will start at fullback in his first appearance since breaking his leg in Round 2.

His comeback pushes Nathan Carroll to the wing, with Creighton set to combine with Reds teammates Hamish Stewart and brother Hudson in the backline.

Former Wallaby scrumhalf Joe Powell starts in the halves alongside Paddy James, while up front, Tom Moloney, Matt Faessler and Harry Hoopert form a formidable front row.

Both sides have shown their ability to attack, and score points this year, meaning this one could come down to defence at Yoku Road.

Brothers head coach Brendan Gabbett is expecting a tough battle against the Students.

“We have to be at out very best to beat a very good Uni side,” he said.

“Finals doesn’t change our approach. We have to focus on what got us here and double down on that.

“Our Reds bring calmness and experience in playing on the big stages.”