The Brumbies and Reds enter Friday's match at GIO Stadium with plenty of prove as they battle for top spot.
Both teams have established themselves as the benchmarks of Australian Rugby, producing three thrilling encounters in 2021.
This culminated in the Super Rugby AU Final as the Reds produced a 84th minute try through James O'Connor to steal victory after the siren.
Brumbies lock Darcy Swain was one of two in the bin during the final minutes and concedes the 'bitterness' still remains.
"It's been sitting in the back of everyone's minds, that sort of bitterness of last year and the way it ended," he told reporters.
"But as much as it hurts, we've got to go out there this weekend and stick to our guns. We have to play our game and be physical, have a good set-piece and play on top of them and I know we’ll do good things.”
As for the Reds, they are gunning for top spot after defying a host of injuries to remain undefeated throughout 2022.
Reds scrumhalf Kalani Thomas, who threw the ball to set up O'Connor's try in the Final, is one of several who has stepped up as a result, preparing to take it to Wallaby Nic White.
White is renowned for getting under opposition skin and whilst the two are yet to face off, Thomas was well aware of what to expect.
“I don’t think I’ve played any minutes at all (against White),” the teenager told reporters.
“I’ve heard a lot of stories about him, and the chat that he throws on the field so it’ll be good to see how he goes getting under the halfback’s skin this week.
“If someone wants to talk, then let them because it’s only putting them off their game ... I don’t even take it in.
“I’m more focused on the job at hand.”
The visitors are set to receive a boost with captain Liam Wright expected back from a shoulder injury.
