September has come early for the Sydney Roosters.
After two straight losses, the Roosters have a point to prove in Saturday's NRL clash against the Wests Tigers at Allianz Stadium.
They were far from disgraced in last week's 16-13 loss to ladder leaders Melbourne.
After taking a 13-12 lead late in the game, the Storm were simply better in the dying minutes, which sticks in the craw of coach Trent Robinson
The Roosters have prided themselves on winning the big moments this year - and that's evident in their 8-3 record in games decided by six points or less.
It's a trait which Robinson knows will be vital come the finals and are looking to rediscover.
"In the clutch we were bloody good last week, we went down a few times and we fought our way back in," Robinson said.
"But the ultimate one, we weren't. We kicked a field goal, there was some really good footy there.
"That's the bit you've got to make sure you improve. That's the bit I want to see this week, I want to see some good intensity, some good, quality team play but also the bigger moments, we want to dominate them."
The Roosters have been buoyed with fullback Michael Gordon cleared to return from a pectoral injury a month ahead of schedule while winger Blake Ferguson has been cleared of a shoulder problem.
It means the Roosters are close to full strength three weeks out from the finals, with only winger Daniel Tupou (groin) still on the sidelines.
While the Roosters are fighting to regain their top two spot, all the Tigers have left to play for is pride and to avoid the wooden spoon.
They proved they're out to make a nuisance of themselves with an upset win over Manly last week and are looking to do the same against the Roosters.
"Everyone's got different reasons to be motivated," Cleary said.
"(Upsetting the top sides) is probably part of it. The main thing for us is to play well and compete and try to win."
STATS THAT MATTER
* The Roosters have won their past nine against the Tigers - the longest current active streak in the NRL.
* At Allianz Stadium the Roosters have won six straight and 10 of their past 11.
* The Tigers are searching for consecutive wins for the first time since round 22 last year.
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