In-demand former Wallaby Bernard Foley will take his final bow in the Japan Rugby League One decider after Spears Funabashi Bay beat Saitama Wild Knights 26-24 to qualify for next week's championship game.
Flyhalf Foley has been linked to a return to the Waratahs, whom he kicked to victory in the 2014 Super Rugby final against the Crusaders.
The Spears prevailed on Sunday in a tight contest that swung on the first-half yellow card awarded against Southport School (Gold Coast) old boy Dylan Riley, with the Wild Knights centre sent to the sideline for a deliberate knock-down.
Replacement Spears centre Halatoa Vailea scored during the Brave Blossoms international's absence and later sensationally charged down a conversion as Foley's side held off a late charge from the Wild Knights to complete a thrilling victory.
