Despite easily claiming last year's minor premiership, the Panthers were ambushed 22-0 in the first half by a Melbourne side boasting far more grand final experience.

But fast forward 12 months and the Panthers will use that pain as a huge driving force after exacting some revenge on the Storm in last week's preliminary final.

For Temora product Martin, 24, nerves before big games have now been replaced by a sense of calmness after he made his State of Origin debut for NSW in this year's 2-1 series win.

He told media this week he's learned not to get distracted by the hype which comes with a grand final build-up.

"Last year we learned the intensity finals footy has to be played at," he said.

"Last year being my first experience and I was pretty nervous going into it, but this year I know what to expect and the standards you have to play at to get away with the win.

"Rep footy's certainly benefited myself and the other boys who were a part of it.

"That big game experience and the nerves, learning to deal with them can only hold us in good stead into this weekend."

Last year Temora was a town with divided loyalties, with another member of their alumni Ryan Hinchcliffe an assistant coach at the Storm.

Martin's mother Maxine will watch the match from home as her son looks to build on a superb preliminary final display where he racked up 98 metres and made 46 tackles off the bench.

"I'm just trying to stay as calm and present as possible," he said.

"Obviously there's a lot going on so you can get carried away a little bit."

Penrith is battling a handful of injuries before the decider, but their defence has ensured they will start favourites against Souths.

After falling to the Rabbitohs in the first week of finals, the Panthers have conceded just 12 total points in gritty wins over Parramatta and Melbourne.

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