If Leeds Rhinos have spent the season trying to lull Saints into a false sense of security for the big day, they've done a pretty good job.

On the evidence of Rhinos' woeful performance in the qualifying semi-final at Knowsley Road 13 days ago, the title decider could be a mis-match.

But nothing that has happened over the last seven months will have any real bearing when the teams walk out at Old Trafford on Saturday evening and if Rhinos can get their performance right they are the only team in the country capable of matching Saints blow for blow.

The Merseysiders have the momentum, but finishing the season as league leaders, winning the qualifying semi-final and even previous league form are all irrelevant in a Grand Final, at any level.

Bramley Buffaloes, for example, went into last Sunday's Co-op Conference National title decider as hot favourites.

Like Saints, they had finished top of the table, a point clear of their opponents, Celtic Crusaders, whom they had beaten three times earlier in the campaign, including a big win in the qualifying semi-final.

Celtic, though, got their game together when it really mattered and their 26-4 victory underlined the fact that it really does all come down to how you play on the day.

There is no clear advantage to having an extra week to prepare for the title decider. Five of the ten Super League Grand Finals have been won by the team who came through the qualifying semi-final on top.

Leeds' two victories, in 2004 and last year, were both achieved on the back of a qualifying semi-final defeat.

Leeds' only success in that game, in 2005, was followed two weeks later by defeat at Old Trafford to Bradford Bulls.

The form line certainly favours Saints, who haven't lost since April, an incredible run spanning 23 matches in all competitions.

Based on their last performance, they are in red-hot form; they are also full of confidence and highly motivated, following last year's Grand Final defeat and with Saturday being coach Daniel Anderson's final game in charge.

Leeds started the season at express pace and appeared to have the league leaders' shield wrapped up by the midway point, but they then suffered a lengthy slump which saw them waste a seven-point advantage.

Recent form has been a little variable, but they bounced back well from the qualifying semi-final defeat with a tough victory over Wigan Warriors last Friday, which was more comprehensive than the 18-14 scoreline suggests.

Much will depend on whether Rhinos really believe they can beat Saints this year.