The Queanbeyan Whites have shelved revenge talk to focus on building a new culture as they prepare for a grand final rematch against the Tuggeranong Vikings on Thursday night.
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The Vikings broke Queanbeyan hearts in the decider last year when they won their fourth consecutive premiership with a 25-13 triumph.
But Whites coach Adam Fahey says his team is not using the loss as motivation as they prepare to clash for the first time in the John I Dent Cup season.
"The grand final hasn't even been mentioned, we've got a new team, new energy and they want to build their own culture and piece of history," Fahey said.
"There's a lot of energy around at the moment. We're undefeated and so are Tuggeranong, so the main goal at the moment is to stay undefeated rather than thinking about last year.
"It's definitely not revenge or anything like that."
The Vikings and Whites are battling for an edge at the top of the John I Dent Cup ladder after both winning their first three matches.
Two competition games have been shifted to Thursday night to avoid matches on Anzac Day, while Wests, Easts and Royals have a bye.
The Gungahlin Eagles are searching for their first win of the season against the Uni-Norths Owls at Gungahlin Enclosed while the Whites attempt to stake their premiership claim.
The Vikings will have to fill the holes left in their line-up by scrumhalf Joe Powell and playmaker Rodney Iona, who have both been called up to Super Rugby duties with the Brumbies.
"Everything is tracking along nicely ... we're happy with the way we're progressing," Fahey said.
"But we've got a long way to go, we're still learning and by no means are we at our full potential."
JOHN I DENT CUP ROUND FIVE
Thursday: Tuggeranong Vikings v Queanbeyan Whites at Viking Park, Gungahlin Eagles v Uni-Norths Owls at Gungahlin Enclosed. Both games start at 7.30pm. Wests, Easts, Royals - bye.
