The new format was brought in this season by the code's administrators.

Group 6/Wests president Grahame Andrews said he was excited about the possibilities the new format may throw up.

``With a new eight-team finals format, it rewards teams finishing in the top four with a guaranteed second bite of the cherry,'' Andrews said.

``We feel that this will reward the teams who have maintained consistency throughout the season.

``It will see the teams finishing in positions five to eight under pressure, with a loss meaning elimination.

``I am sure we will see some great contests among those teams under the pump, just as we have seen some real desperation from teams fighting for positions in the final eight in recent weeks.''

Andrews said the finals format is ``a point of difference'' from the NRL's adopted McIntyre System, in which only the top two teams are guaranteed with a safe passage into the second week of the finals.

The top-eight format is for six grades, first, reserve and third grade competitions, as well as the under 18s first, second and third divisions.

Venues for the opening weekend of the finals, starting on Saturday are Dudley Chesham Sportsgound, The Oaks; Sunday August 22, Sid Sharpe Memorial Oval, Oakdale.

Venues for the remaining finals are Sunday, August 29, Community Oval, Moss Vale; Saturday, September 4 at Thirlmere Oval; Sunday, September 5, at Narellan Sportsground; and also Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Sunday, September 5. Preliminary finals will be played at Victoria Park, Picton, on Saturday, September 11 and Sunday, September 12.

Six grand finals will be decided at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Saturday, September 18.