Packer broke his thumb in the major semi-final last year and had to watch the Blue Boars claim back to back premierships from the sidelines.

“I really wanted it after last year to play in the grand final,” Packer said after the Blue Boars secured their berth with a tense one-point win over Moree on Saturday.

“It was a good feeling for the boys winning it last year but there was some sadness at not being part of it.”

It was a bit touch and go as to whether they’d get there, with the Bulls having a penalty shot after the bell. The Blue Boars had played well in the first half to set up a 15-10 lead at half-time but dropped off a bit early in the second half.

“It’s just our second halves. It’s not been us as a Narrabri side,” Packer said.

They have been one of their strengths.

“We’ve probably panicked a bit rather than be calm and collected,” he said.

On Saturday they showed signs of getting back to that. After the Bulls had hit the front they just ground away until their opportunity came.

Saturday had to be, and was, a marked improvement on their effort against Pirates the previous week.

“We got in there and dug deep and worked for each other,” Packer said.

He has really enjoyed steering the side around.

“I enjoy getting my hands on the ball straight away,” he said.

And he believes that if the forwards can set the platform like they did against the Bulls and provide them with good ball, the backs can cause a few headaches for Pirates.