Author : Zoe Filetti Sharks Reporter

Three Sharks teams qualify for Junior Rep finals

In a great result for the club, three of the four Sharks Junior Representative teams will feature in the NSWRL finals next weekend after a strong finish to the home-and-away season.

aramex – Proud sponsors of the men in the Black White & Blue

Cronulla’s Lisa Fiaola (beat Tigers 18-14), Tarsha Gale (lost to Tigers 16-14) and SG Ball (beat Storm 40-36) teams punched their tickets to the playoffs with solid Round 9 performances at Sharks Stadium on Saturday.

The Lisa Fiaola side finished fourth, earning a double chance in the finals, while the Tarsha Gale and SG Ball squads came eighth and sixth respectively.

Stay tuned for further information on week one finals match ups and details.

While the Harold Matthews side toppled the Dragons 38-16 at Jubilee Stadium, it wasn’t enough to stay in the top eight with the Eels winning on Sunday to relegate the Sharks to ninth spot, two competition points adrift of the four teams above.

Lisa Fioala Cup

Sharks 18 – 14 Wests Tigers

Tarsha Gale Cup

Sharks 14 – 16 Wests Tigers

SG Ball Cup

Sharks 40 – 36 Storm

Harold Matthews Cup

Dragons – 16 – 38 Sharks

Read on for an SG Ball match report.

Sharks hold out fast-finishing Storm in SG Ball thriller

After leading 36-0, Cronulla withstood a furious Melbourne fightback to clinch a heart-stopping 40-36 win at Sharks Stadium on Saturday.

The Sharks snared an early advantage when centre Nikora Williams slid over in the fourth minute, with five-eighth Callum Grantham unable to convert.

A good set of attack in the 11th minute allowed Grantham to put up a bomb, and after a knock-on from the Storm, winger Bailey Leach scored under the black dot to lengthen Cronulla’s lead.

Grantham kicked the goal to make it 10-0.

Another Melbourne mistake put Cronulla back in dominant field position, and Williams ensured they capitalised as he crossed for his second of the day in the 17th minute.

Continuing the Sharks’ flawless first-half performance, interchange forward Ratu Viliame Koroitamana surged over in the 24th minute.

With Grantham adding the two points, Cronulla had stretched their lead out 20-0.

Leach marched in for his second four-pointer in the 30th minute, underlining Cronulla’s ruthless attacking streak.

A try beneath the crossbar to hooker Aaron Keppie in the 34th minute, followed by a Grantham conversion, allowed the Sharks to head into the sheds with a convincing 30-0 buffer.

Cronulla picked up where they left

Coming out after the break, Cronulla picked up where they left off with winger Elijah Paea adding his name to the scoresheet.

Grantham booted his fourth goal and the Sharks seemingly had an unassailable lead of six converted tries.

Melbourne finally got much-needed points on the board with fullback Amaziah Murgha scoring in the 40th minute and halfback Riley Brannock converting.

They struck again in the 45th minute, keeping their hopes of a comeback alive with a try to centre Alize Clarke. Brannock’s goal took the score to 36-12.

With momentum behind them, the Storm landed another blow as front-rower Cooper Clarke scored to bring the visitors right back into the battle.

Brannock extended his perfect kicking streak to reduce the gap to 18 points.

Melbourne threatened to cross again when they made a clean break, however a desperate tackle from Sharks fullback Oliver Lester saved a certain try.

But the men in purple wouldn’t go away and it was Clarke who went in for a double in the 54th minute to wind the margin back to 36-24.

Unbelievably, a converted try was all that separated the teams when Storm hooker Lockyer-Azile Foliola scored to the left of the posts in the 59th minute, setting up another easy goal for Brannock.

After 63 minutes, Cronulla pushed through the Storm defence with Paea grabbing his second of the half to give his side breathing space at 40-30.

An intense final five minutes saw Melbourne make their way over the line again with Foliola nabbing a double and Brannock converting to put the Storm only four points behind.

Their last-ditch effort was thwarted, however, and the Sharks hung on for a dramatic victory to ensure their place in the finals next week.

FULL RESULTS Rnd 9

Lisa Fioala Cup Round 9 Full results, Ladder & top point scorers

Tarsha Gale Cup Round 9 Full results, Ladder & top point scorers

Harold Matthews Cup Round 9 Full results, Ladder & top point scorers 

SG Ball Cup Round 9 Full results, Ladder & top point scorers

NSWRL Junior Reps news

Three Sharks teams qualify for Junior Rep finals

International Junior Rugby League

Ghana rugby league partner to support young players

Knights dig deep to claim first Andrew Johns Cup

Dragons Pathways Wrap Round 7

Eels Well Placed For Finals Football

QRL Rnd 6 Junior Statewide Competitions

One up one down for Junior Sharks

Warriors SG Ball celebrating first win of season

Sea Eagles Junior Reps Rnd 7

Warriors Matts finals football a step closer

Regional Junior Reps Semi-finals

Mixed Results at Home for the Eels

Sea Eagles Pathways Wrap Rnd 4

A win and a loss for male junior rep Sharks

School Footy News

Cronulla High School Uni Shield

Round 8 Results

Lisa Fioala Cup Round 8 full results, ladder & top point scorers

Tarsha Gale Cup Round 8 full results, ladder & top point scorers

Harold Matthews Cup Round 8 full results, ladder & top point scorers

SG Ball Cup Round 8 full results, ladder & top point scorers

Wests Tigers rnd 2 report

Manly Junior reps wrap rnd 2

SG Ball Cup Rnd 2 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Harold Matthews Cup Rnd 2 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Tarsha Gale Cup Rnd 2 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Lisa Fiola Cup Rnd 2 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

The post Three Sharks teams qualify for Junior Rep finals appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Zoe Filetti Sharks Reporter

Bittersweet round for Junior Rep Sharks

It was a topsy-turvy weekend for the Junior Representative Sharks as the SG Ball and Lisa Fiaola sides shored up their finals bids while the Harold Matthews and Tarsha Gale teams were defeated.

aramex Proud sponsors of the boys in the black, white & blue

Facing the Knights at the Newcastle COE on Saturday, Cronulla’s Lisa Fiaola girls ground out a 12-4 victory to nail down their place in the top eight with one round remaining.

The Tarsha Gale Sharks were defeated 14-10, however their points differential should be enough to qualify for the playoffs regardless of results.

In the boys matches played at Sharks Stadium on Sunday, Cronulla’s Harold Matthews finals chances were left hanging by a thread after a 24-22 loss to the Bulldogs.

There were no such issues for the SG Ball team, with a crushing 38-10 victory over the Tigers ensuring their premiership hopes remain alive.

Harold Matthews report

Riddled with injuries and poor weather conditions, the Harold Matthews Sharks were unable to get one over a ruthless Bulldogs side in an extremely important match.

The Bulldogs started fast with a charge-down to back up a strong first set of defence which led to a try to winger Wesley Papalii-Afoa in the opening minute.

Centre Luca Te Awa was unable to convert, giving Canterbury an early 4-0 lead.

Cronulla didn’t let this slow them down, however, as they continued to place sets of solid attack on the Bulldogs.

Fancy footwork from Canterbury fullback Kden Carter gave them room for a try-scoring opportunity, but they were unable to complete the play.

Throughout the middle of the first half, the Sharks showed a lot of fight, repeatedly defending sets, however in attack, they suffered from poor discipline and couldn’t finish.

After a mammoth effort defending their line, it was only a matter of time before the Bulldogs struck for their second, winger Oka Chan Kum Tong sliding over the line in the 17th minute.

Te Awa narrowly missed the conversion, furthering the margin to 8-0.

An unfortunate error from the Sharks allowed Canterbury to regain possession and make a break down the field.

Following this Cronulla gave away a detrimental penalty, which ended in Bulldogs centre Braith Sloane adding another four-pointer to their tally and Te Awa landing his first conversion of the day for a 14-0 lead.

The unlucky streak was broken when Cronulla crossed under the black dot for their first of the day in the 27th minute thanks to fullback Thomas Beattie.

Halfback Liam Challenor converted to bring the Sharks back within eight points.

Retrieving the ball from the kick off, the Bulldogs found a spot of lacking defence and used it to their advantage when Te Awa angled his way across the line in the final minute before the break. He was unable to convert.

It was the Sharks who opened the second-half scoring with winger Brodie Johnsen marching his way over in the 35th minute, with Challenor booting a tough goal.

Cronulla now only trailed by a converted try, giving them a shot of confidence.

To back up their flawless start after the break, interchange forward Oliver Te Hira secured a try for the Sharks in the 38th minute, and with Challenor able to convert, the scores were levelled at 18-18.

Canterbury snatched back the lead in the 47th minute with five-eighth Chinedu Udeh crossing to make the score 22-18.

Fullback Carter added the two points.

A perfectly placed kick from Cronulla in the 52nd minute allowed Johnsen to grab his second of the match and bring the hosts back into the game. Challenor was unable to convert, leaving the Sharks trailing by two.

The contest went down to the wire with Cronulla throwing everything they had at an outstanding defensive side, though they were continually held out.

The final score of 24-22 significantly dented the Sharks’ finals hopes.

SG Ball report

Unlike the Harold Matthews match, it was Cronulla who were in control for the majority of the SG Ball game, proving they have what it takes to be a finals side.

For the opening 10 minutes, the match was tight with both sides making a few errors but staying consistent in attack and defence.

Cronulla were the first team to strike in the eighth minute after halfback Blake Wardrobe made a break and passed to winger Bailey Leach, who used momentum to get across. With five-eighth Callum Grantham unable to convert, the Sharks led 4-0.

Continuing their run of solid attack, fast hands down the left side placed winger Elijah Paea in perfect position to barge his way over in the 14th minute.

An unsuccessful conversion attempt by Grantham in windy conditions meant the Sharks stretched their lead out by four more points.

To add to their list of tries, in the 19th minute Blake Watman forced his way under the black dot for Cronulla’s third of the day, and with Grantham adding the two points, the Sharks were slipping away from the Tigers.

After 24 minutes

After 24 minutes, Balmain hit back with winger Cooper Rauhihi touching down and halfback Marc Tannous converting. The Tigers were now back in this contest, only trailing by eight.

It wasn’t enough for the visitors as Cronulla marched their way over just four minutes later, with centre Prestyn Laine-Sietu grabbing his first of the day. Grantham was unable to convert.

Laine-Sietu proved unstoppable when securing a double moments later in the 31st minute, and with Grantham unable to add the two points, the score was 22-6.

To capitalise on their sensational first-half performance, Cronulla added a sixth try to their tally on the buzzer with Paea claiming a double. To enter the break, the Sharks led 26-6, summing up a dominant display so far.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, a knock-on from the kick off gave Cronulla prime field position instantly, however they could not complete.

After poor discipline from the Sharks, interchange forward Jake White was sin-binned.

Now against a 12-man side, Balmain capitalised and went in for their second of the afternoon with Ocean Vaivela powering through the defensive line in the 48th minute.

Tannous missing the goal, the score was 26-10.

Throughout the majority of the second-half it was an arm wrestle, with both teams unable to complete sets and giving away penalties.

The Sharks broke their scoreless second-half streak with fullback Oliver Lester sliding over the try line in the 64th minute to take the score to 30-10, and with Grantham converting, there were now 22 points dividing the teams.

Off the back of an amazing kick from Alex Isdale in the 69th minute, centre Nikora Williams leapt to catch the ball and came down over the line to cap off an amazing game from Cronulla’s SG Ball side.

Grantham converting, the final score was 38-10 in favour of the Sharks.

The Lisa Fiaola and Tarsha Gale Sharks will round out the regular season at home on Saturday morning with matches against the Wests Tigers.

The SG Ball side are also scheduled to play at Sharks Stadium in a clash with the Storm, while the Harold Matthews boys will take their talents to Jubilee Stadium to face the Dragons.

Bittersweet round for Junior Rep Sharks

Sea Eagles Pathways Rnd 8 Wrap

The post Bittersweet round for Junior Rep Sharks appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Sharks Media

Strong start for junior Sharks

The Matthews Cup Sharks fell behind 12-0 early, while in the SG Ball match to follow again the Sharks stuttered to a 14-0 deficit, before both teams staged impressive comebacks to score round one wins.

In matches played against Penrith at the HE Laybutt Field in Blacktown, the under-17 Matts Cup Sharks would go on to register a dominant 30-16 triumph, while in the SG Ball clash a stirring fightback resulted in a 26-18 victory to the under-19 Cronulla side.

In the Matthews Cup a Sharks kick-off error gifted Penrith field position before they would score first points, their number nine diving over from dummy half.

A second mistake from the young Cronulla team again allowed the Panthers t move into an attacking zone and once more that would capitalize with a try from short range, and after two successful conversions the home team led 12-0 inside the first 10 minutes of the game.

Showing good composure, the Sharks worked their way back into the contest, with a well worked set move seeing centre Kaylan Turner hit a gap before evading the fullback in a 25-metre dash to the try line.

Liam Challenor was on target

Liam Challenor was on target with the conversion attempt and it was 12-6 Panthers.

Encouraged by their opening try the Sharks went back on the attack and managed to level the score courtesy of a determined short-side charge from lock Thomas Stepic and a Challenor conversion from wide out, with the teams going to the half time break locked at 12-points all.

Showing superior fitness and an ability to control the ball, the Sharks began to assert their authority early in the second half, with a Challenor 40-20 putting his team deep on the attack.

A few tackles later the Sharks would reap the benefits of the Challenor kick with a try wide out to winger Brodie Johnson.

Another successful kick at goal putting the Cronulla side up 18-12, before hard running back rower Logan Longbottom crashed over adjacent to the uprights to help his side to a 12-point advantage.

The Panthers would give themselves some hope of a comeback when awarded a dubious try after the referee appeared to miss an obvious knock-on, making the score 24-16 with nine minutes left on the clock.

The Sharks would prove too good, centre Thomas Beattie crossing for the match sealing try after cleverly picking up a chip kick from five eighth Spencer Swann.

It was a solid first-up performance from a Sharks side which had a number of standouts, none better than Challenor at half back.

Longbottom who added energy and physicality off the bench, hooker Tobi Beckett was busy while providing good service and big front rower Jamie Curran led the way up front.

In the SG Ball match

In the SG Ball match it was almost a similar script to the Matthews Cup game which preceded it, the Sharks their own worst enemies in the early exchanges, conceding three tries to trail 14-0 midway through the first half.

They would settle down and work their way into the contest, a Prestyn Laine-Sietu off-load setting winger Bailey Leach up for the Sharks first points.

Callum Grantham converting from the western touchline, with the half time score of 14-6 flattering for what had been a disappointing Sharks team.

However, whatever was discussed during the break certainly had the desired effect, with interchange forward Tipene Thompson scoring, Grantham adding the extras to make it 14-12, before a Penrith try would push their advantage back out to six points.

From that point the Sharks would gain the upper hand, half back Blake Wardrobe scoring a 51st minute try and not long after Leach a second out wide.

Two conversions giving the under-19 Cronulla outfit a six point lead, before a Grantham penalty goal on fulltime secured the win.

The two Sharks junior rep teams play round two matches at Sharks Stadium against the Canberra Raiders next Saturday.

SG Ball Cup Rnd 1 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Harold Matthews Cup Rnd 1 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Tarsha Gale Cup Rnd 1 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Lisa Fiola Cup Rnd 1 Full Results, Ladder & Player Stat’s

Tarsha Gale cup Rnd 1 team lists

SG Ball Rnd 1 team lists

The post Strong start for junior Sharks appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Sharks Media

Sharks supply three Australian Schoolboys reps

The Sharks congratulate Nikora Williams, Alex Challenor and Tom Dellow on being selected to represent the Australian Schoolboys after shining at last week’s national championships in Coffs Harbour.

The trio are local juniors who have been members of Cronulla’s elite pathways system since the under 14s, with Williams hailing from the Aquinas club, Challenor a De La Salle Caringbah product and Dellow a Como-Jannali alumnus.

Challenor’s under-18 NSW Combined Catholic Colleges side took out the ASSRL Championships final with a 40-12 win over a NSW Combined High Schools team captained by Williams and containing Dellow and fellow Shark Aaron Keppie.

Dellow – the reigning Sharks Junior Representative Player of the Year – was awarded the prestigious title of CHS Player of the Carnival.

Williams, a classy centre who can kick goals, has earned his second Australian Schoolboys jumper after facing Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby in 2023.

The Schoolboys stars impressed for Cronulla in this year’s junior representative season. Dellow, a tough, skilful lock, led the under-17 Harold Matthews Cup side to week two of the finals, where they were edged out 8-6 by the Magpies.

Powerful prop Challenor and Williams combined in the under-19 SG Ball Cup ranks.

Williams has since graduated to the under-21 Jersey Flegg Cup team, more than holding his own in the backline against older opponents.

The Australian Schoolboys will play later in the year, with details to come.

See the full squad below.

2024 Australian Under 18 Schoolboys Team

1 – Jack Attard (NSWCCC)
2 – Luke Tuialii (ACT)
3 – Nikora Williams (NSWCHS)
4 – Sam Stephenson (QRSS)
5 – Mason Barber (QRSS)
6 – Mitchell Woods (NSWCIS)
7 – Toby Rodwell (NSWCIS)
8 – Alex Challenor (NSWCCC)
9 – Lachlan Coinakis (NSWCCC)
10 – Cody Hopwood (NSWCCC)
11 – Jacob Halangahu (NSWCCC)
12 – Zac Garton (QRSS)
13 – Thomas Dellow (NSWCHS)

14 – Jared Haywood (NSWCCC)
15 – Simione Laiafi (NSWCHS)
16 – Ryda Talagi (NSWCHS)
17 – Tyson Sangalang (NSWCCC)

18 – Lincoln Fletcher (NSWCHS)

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The post Sharks supply three Australian Schoolboys reps appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Sharks Media

Dellow cleans up at Sharks boys junior rep presentation

After captaining the Harold Matthews Cup team to the brink of the grand final, lock Tom Dellow was crowned the Sharks’ Junior Representative Player of the Year at Tuesday’s presentation night.

Dellow swept the under-17 categories, collecting the Players’ Player, Player of the Year and Coaches Awards in recognition of his outstanding season.

For the under-19 SG Ball team, who fell just short of the finals, prop Jai Davies was named Player of the Year, winger Pharrell Gray received the Coaches Award and second-rower Max McCarthy earned the Players’ Player gong.

aramex – Proud sponsors of the boys in the Black, White & Blue

The dinner at Sharks at Kareela acknowledged the efforts of the junior boys squads and staff, with a separate presentation for the girls on Wednesday evening.

From the Como-Jannali Crocodiles club, Dellow also played in the Matthews Cup last year, won the Coaches Award and earned selection in the City under-16 side.

The tough and skilful forward joins NRL squad members Blayke Brailey and Sam Stonestreet – both of whom attended the presentation night – and Teig Wilton in being named the Junior Representative Player of the Year.

Along with the players, attendees included NRL head coach Craig Fitzgibbon and his staff, club CEO Dino Mezzatesta, General Manager Football Darren Mooney.

Development and Pathways Manager Glenn Brailey and representatives from Sharks Academy major partner John Ryan Freight Management.

Fellow junior rep sponsors Minespec Parts, SBA Earthmoving and Attachments, Shore Hire and Cronulla Carpets were also thanked for their support.

The Harold Matthews side, coached by Brad Kelly, were defeated 8-6 by Western Suburbs in the grand final qualifier in April.

The Dave Howlett-coached SG Ball outfit showed promise with four wins and a draw in finishing a respectable ninth.
2024 junior rep award winners – boys

Harold Matts Coaches Award – Thomas Dellow

Harold Matts Players’ Player – Thomas Dellow

Harold Matts Player of the Year – Thomas Dellow

Sam Stonestreet and Tom Dellow. ©Steve Montgomery – Our Footy Team

SG Ball Coaches Award – Pharrell Gray

Pharrell Gray and Blayke Brailey. ©Steve Montgomery – Our Footy Team

SG Ball Players’ Player – Max McCarthy

Dave Howlett and Max McCarthy. ©Steve Montgomery – Out Footy Team

SG Ball Player of the Year – Jai Davies

Jai Davies and Blayke Brailey. ©Steve Montgomery – Our Footy Team

Junior Reps Player of the Year – Thomas Dellow

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The post Dellow cleans up at Sharks boys junior rep presentation appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Sharks Media

Applications open for Sharks Winter Academy

Applications are now open for players and staff interested in taking part in the 2024 Sharks Winter Academy program.

Sharks deliver the wins, aramex delivers the goods

A crucial part of the Sharks development system, the Winter Academy is open to those registered and playing for Cronulla-Sutherland District Junior League clubs. Squads will be assembled in the under 13s, 14s, 15s and 18s age groups.

Those selected will participate in a training block and games. Trials will be conducted at the Academy Fields at Cronulla High School.

The program follows the recent NSWRL Junior Representative season, in which the under-17 Sharks Harold Matthews boys reached the semi-finals, and is integral in continuing to identify and nurture local talent.

Applications close on Friday, May 24 – successful applicants will be contacted – ahead of Winter Academy training sessions commencing on Monday, June 10.

Triallists should be ready to train and bring suitable attire including boots and a mouthguard. If needed, strapping should be done before the session starts.

It’s advised to bring a completed waiver form – CLICK HERE – however they will also be available at the venue on the trial dates.

Staff roles include coaches, sports trainer, physiotherapist, equipment coordinator, strength and conditioning, team manager and ground announcer/timer.

See the application links at the bottom of the page.

Trial dates and times are as follows. For any questions regarding the Winter Academy, please contact Bryce Gentle – bgentle@sharks.com.au.

Winter Academy trials

*Dates and times subject to change*

U13s – MONDAY 27th May 2024
Sharks Academy Fields (Cronulla HS) – Arrive at 4:15pm

U14s – MONDAY 27th May 2024
Sharks Academy Fields (Cronulla HS) – Arrive at 5:30pm

U15s – MONDAY 27th May 2024
Sharks Academy Fields (Cronulla HS) – Arrive at 6:45pm

U16s – WEDNESDAY 29th May 2024
Sharks Academy Fields (Cronulla HS) – Arrive at 4:15pm

U18s – WEDNESDAY 29th May 2024
Sharks Academy Fields (Cronulla HS) – Arrive at 5:45pm

CLICK HERE for the player application form

CLICK HERE for the staff application form

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The post Applications open for Sharks Winter Academy appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Jacob Tyson Panthers Junior Reporter

Panthers junior reps round 7 wrap

The Panthers hosted the Sharks in three grades at St Marys on Saturday.

Lisa Fiaola Cup
Sharks 30 def. Panthers 14

Penrith Panthers Lisa Fioala Cup team (Photo – Steve Montgomery)

An injury plagued Lisa Fiaola Panthers side played host to the Sharks at St Marys on Saturday morning, valiant in a 30-14 defeat.

The right edge for the Panthers was on fire with Naioka Tuipulotu and Tyler-Eve Mair putting in great performances, but the Sharks were too strong, winning the game through the middle of the field.

The Panthers got off to a strong start in this contest, when in the fourth minute, Naioka Tuipolotu took it herself to crash over close to the line.

It came off the back of a strong start from the Panthers, forcing a Sharks error and marching into their redzone. Conversion unsuccessful, 4-0.

The Sharks didn’t take long to hit back, plenty of ball movement seeing them break down the Panthers edges multiple times, before Felila Fakalelu crashed over for the Sharks first. Conversion successful, 4-6.

Fakalelu had her second just three minutes later, crashing over from close range despite a valiant effort from the Panthers defence. Conversion successful, 4-12.

Fakalelu nearly had a third, ten minutes later, when she looked to barge over, this time met by Aaliyah Womal and Meekah Viiga who were brave in holding her up over the line.

The Panthers looked to get back into it with some hard running through the middle marching them upfield. They forced an error from the Sharks inside their half and looked to have a chance at scoring, but an error handed the Sharks the ball just two plays later.

Isabella McDonald, who had a strong start for the Sharks, was rewarded with a four-pointer, crashing over from hooker through a loose ruck, extending the lead. Conversion successful, 4-18.

HALF TIME 4-18

The Panthers started the second half in similar fashion to the first, once again going down their right edge, with Tuipolotu this time shifting it along to Tyler-Eve Mair who went through.

She still had the fullback to beat, and turned her inside out to find the line and score a brilliant try. Conversion unsuccessful, 8-18.

Felila Fakalelu wouldn’t be denied of a third, when the Sharks front rower barged over the Panthers defence, securing a powerful hattrick. Conversion unsuccessful, 8-22.

In the 38th minute, The Tuipolotu and Mair connection had the crowd on their feet once again, when a brilliantly run line from Mair saw her into open space off the Tuipolotu cutout.

This time Sharks fullback Milla Caine was able to bring her down, ten metres short of the line.

Fakalelu had a fourth, 5 minutes later when she punched through a gap in the defence, and was impossible to stop. Conversion unsuccessful, 8-26.

Fatafehi-Marie Mahe scored a brilliant try to get the Panthers back into the game, stepping through defenders before hitting clear air and scoring. Conversion successful, 14-26.

In the 51st minute, Sharks crashed over in what looked like a final blow, but it was called back because of a forward pass, giving the Panthers nine minutes to chase the two try deficit.

The Sharks defence held the Panthers out, when they were given a full set of six inside Sharks ten metre line, but couldn’t convert.

A high tackle penalty got the Sharks out of trouble, and they capitalised later their set with Milla Caine putting the icing on the cake. Conversion unsuccessful, 14-30.

FULL TIME 14-30

Tarsha Gale Cup
Sharks 48 def. Panthers 4

Penrith Panthers Tarsha Gale Cup team (Photo – Steve Montgomery)

Tough day at the office for the Tarsha Gale Panthers, who succumbed to a dominant Sharks side, 48-4 at St Marys stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Panthers defence was tested early, gifting the Sharks a set of six inside their half, following an error and a penalty. Sharks front rower Koreti Leilua looked to barge over, but an amazing defensive effort from Zharia Hukui kept them out.

Just two minutes later another huge defensive effort was required, this time when Sharks halfback Olivia Herman poked her head through the line, just for Panthers fullback Jalice Brown to get under the ball and hold her up.

The pressure didn’t let up, the Panthers unable to get out of their own ten, kicking on last to Tia-Jordyn Vasilovski, who beat two defenders on her return, before finding clear air, running down the touchline to score in the corner. Conversion unsuccessful, 0-4.

Just two minutes later, Vasilovski had a second, pushing up in support from a Takapautolo line break with no defenders to beat, scoring untouched. Conversion successful, 0-10.

The Sharks onslaught continued, Marnie Isemonger finding Koolee Harbour for a line break, going close before Summer Jitoko and Mesha Fretton came up with a try saver.

They didn’t hold out for long after that though, with Koreti Leilua getting over the line from a crash ball just two plays later. Conversion unsuccessful, 0-14.

Two Sharks middles combined in the next set for another try, Faith Vili putting Stephanie Faulkner through with a short ball thirty metres out.

Sophie Faulkner bursting into the clear before getting around Jalice Brown to score. Conversion unsuccessful, 0-18.

Herman put Takapautolo through a gap on the right edge to keep the scoring going, the Sharks backrower exploding into clear air and running over the Panthers fullback to score. Conversion successful, 0-24.

Montana McLean hit back for the Panthers in the 23rd minute, rolling out of a tackle and reaching out to score from close range.

Conversion unsuccessful, 4-24

HALF TIME 4-24

The Panthers defence had to dig deep to start the second half. The Sharks had a full set on their line, coming close on multiple plays but the defence just managed to hold out.

Marnie Isemonger got halfway through but lost it just short of the line to give the Panthers some relief.

Starting just two minutes later, the Panthers but in another big defensive shift, holding out the Sharks who were building pressure with every set.

An error once again got the Panthers out of trouble, after an opening ten minutes to the half which saw them camped in their own end.

The pressure eventually ended with points, Koreti Leilua bursting straight through the middle before finding Vasilovski in support who got to the line. Conversion successful, 4-30.

Stephanie Faulkner bagged her second in similar fashion to the first, going through this time from a drop play off Olivia Herman, and then beating the fullback to score.

Conversion successful, 4-36.

Koreti Leilua continued her dominant performance in the 53rd minute, getting the Sharks to fourty with a huge run from the 30 metre line. She got to the outside of the Panthers fullback and scored, extending an already large Sharks lead. Conversion successful, 4-42.

Arianna Ruwoldt scored a try for the highlights reel to end the game, taking a kick return and burning the Panthers chasers down the sideline, going the full 100. Conversion successful, 4-48.

FULL TIME 4-48

SG BALL
Sharks 28 def. Panthers 22

Penrith Panthers SG Ball Cup team (Photo – Steve Montgomery)

The Panthers have suffered defeat to the Sharks despite holding a healthy lead at half-time.

Penrith opened the scoring for this one early, Jett Cleary supplying a brilliant grubber kick in behind, which was recovered and athletically put down by Tua Patea. Conversion successful, 6-0.

Cleary had his hands on another try, when he threw it inside for Jack Attard, deceiving the defence with Attard powering over the top of the Sharks fullback to score.

Conversion unsuccessful, 10-0

Jett Clearys kicking game had the Sharks in huge trouble throughout the opening half, with Jack Attard, Tua Patea and Hokafonu Lemoto the other standouts in the opening part of the game.

Jack Attard took a remarkable catch and returned it to break through the Sharks chasers, before tipping on for Cleary who nearly got to the line, but a courageous effort from the Sharks fullback stopped him five metres short.

The Panthers built relentless pressure, with the next ten minutes being spent inside the Sharks half. Points didn’t come but the territory battle was being dominated by Penrith.

Cleary’s kicking game continued to sound alarms for the Sharks back five, a huge bomb in attacking territory spilt by the Sharks fullback gave Penrith a golden opportunity.

They capitalised that set, with Cameron Robertson tipping on to Tua Patea who stepped back inside and beat a defender to score.

Conversion successful, 16-0.

Just before the halftime break Jett Cleary hobbled off the field with an ankle injury, a huge blow to the Panthers who were rolling along off the back of his kicking game.

HALF TIME 16-0

William Herbert and Liam Perram both came up with some huge one on one stops early in the second half, when the Panthers were asked to defend their line following an early error.

It looked like they had battled through two repeat sets to hold the Sharks out, but a Riley Pollard kick was contested by Nikora Williams on the Panthers line landing for Adrian Sandy who scored. Conversion successful, 16-6.

In the very next set, Bryce Sait’s fifth tackle play gave the Sharks another four pointer, when he put a kick in which richocheted off a Panthers defender.

Bryce Sait recovered and found Kurt Montgomery who had an easy 2-on-1 to put Gray over in the corner.

Conversion unsuccessful, 16-10.

The Panthers ruck loosened up and Sharks marched 100 metres yet again to score.

Riley Pollard and Bryce Sait picked them apart before they found Pharell Gray with a cutout ball and a try in the corner, having to beat a handful of Panthers defenders. Conversion successful, 16-16.

Hokafonu Lemoto and Jensen Tuaoi came back onto the field and their impact was immediate, with back to back huge runs that gave the Panthers their first set in Sharks territory of the second half.

A good kick had the Sharks trapped in their corner, but a cheap penalty got them out.

Sharks rolled through the middle of a tired Penrith ruck.

On fifth tackle they went from dummy half looking dangerous but Jensen Tuaoi came up with a huge play at the arm to force the ball out, before making the tackle on the Sharks player who recovered the ball.

Tuaoi came up with another huge play in the next set, darting from hooker to pierce the Sharks line and pick up a cheap 20 metres, Penrith continued to roll along off the back of that.

Tua Patea breaking the left edge apart, before passing to Hotere-Papalii who drew the fullback in before finding Cameron Robertson in support play to score. Conversion successful, 22-16.

The Sharks hit back straight away, a right edge shift going from Sait to Williams and then a 2 on 1 found Whalebone open in the corner. Conversion successful 22-22.

A Bryce Sait kick in the next set gave the Sharks their first lead of the game, Nikora Williams scooping up a favourable bounce to score in the corner with just four minutes left to play. Conversion successful, 22-28.

FULL TIME 22-28

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The post Panthers junior reps round 7 wrap appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : Sharks Media

Junior Sharks defeated by Dogs

Join the hunt Members 2024

The junior Sharks were off the pace against the Bulldogs on Saturday and paid the price, suffering heavy Round 6 defeats in their Harold Matthews and SG Ball Cup clashes at Terry Lamb Complex.

Both Cronulla teams came into their games in strong form but performed well below their best, with the Matts going down 48-12 and Ball falling 50-18.

In the under-17 fixture, Canterbury raced to a 30-0 lead at halftime. The Sharks put up a stronger fight in the second term but the damage was done.

Harold Matthews Cup

Bulldogs 48 – 12 Sharks

Play by Play

“We could sit there and whinge about the bounce of the ball and referee’s calls and things like that, but we did it to ourselves with a lot of errors as well. Put ourselves under a lot of pressure,” Harold Matthews coach Brad Kelly said.

“They’re a good team and when they get those sort of opportunities they make you pay … We’ve just got to re-set, learn from it for next game and move on.”

Meanwhile, the under-19 Sharks went into the break locked with the Bulldogs at 14-all before conceding six tries in the second half.

SG Ball Cup

Bulldogs 50 – 18 Sharks

Play by Play

“That’s what happens when you don’t play well,” SG Ball coach Dave Howlett said.

“The opposition is a good team as it was, but we just put them under no pressure at all and we were disappointing. Onwards and upwards.”

Cronulla’s Lisa Fiaola and Tarsha Gale teams had a bye on the weekend.

The women will join the SG Ball boys in facing the Panthers at St Marys Leagues Stadium in Round 7, with the Harold Matthews side having the week off.

Lead image and quotes courtesy of Steve Montgomery from ourfootyteam.com.au

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The post Junior Sharks defeated by Dogs appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

Author : NRL Media Release

Important changes to JRL coming in 2024

In 2024, the Cronulla JRL will be adopting the NRL’s new Player Development Framework (PDF). The implementation of this new PDF will see a number of new changes introduced in 2024 designed to have a positive impact on our young and developing rugby league participants.

As the world of sports evolves, so too must the systems in place to nurture and develop young talent.

In a bid to enhance the Junior Rugby League experience and ensure the holistic development of budding athletes.

The NRL (National Rugby League) has announced groundbreaking changes to its player development framework set to roll out in 2024.

These changes signify a significant shift in approach, aiming to prioritize skill acquisition, safety, and enjoyment for young players.

What is the Player Development Framework?

The NRL’s Player Development Framework is a comprehensive set of guidelines and initiatives designed to support the growth and progression of junior rugby league players.

It outlines the structure of competitions, rules, and programs aimed at fostering the development of fundamental skills, promoting safety, and instilling a love for the game from an early age.

Aims of the Player Development Framework:

Enhance Skill Development: The framework seeks to provide young players with the opportunity to develop fundamental skills crucial for their progression in the sport, laying a strong foundation for future success.

Prioritize Safety: Safety is paramount, especially in contact sports like rugby league. The framework aims to implement measures that ensure the safety of young players, promoting proper technique and gradually introducing contact elements.

Foster Enjoyment and Participation: By creating a positive and supportive environment, the framework aims to foster a lifelong love for rugby league, encouraging continued participation and engagement in the sport.

Key Reforms for 2024:

Development Competitions Only from Ages 6 to 10

The NRL has decided to focus exclusively on development competitions for players aged 6 to 10. This shift allows for a greater emphasis on skill acquisition and player progression during these formative years.

By removing the pressure of intense competition at a young age, players can focus on honing their skills and enjoying the game without the added stress of winning at all costs.

No Tackle for Under 6s

In a move aimed at prioritizing safety and skill development, players under the age of 6 will not engage in tackling during matches.

Instead, they will focus on developing fundamental skills such as running, passing, and evasive manoeuvres.

This decision recognizes the physical limitations of very young players and aims to mitigate the risk of injury by gradually introducing contact elements as players mature.

Important changes to JRL coming in 2024 (Photo – Steve Montgomery)

Tackle Ready Program for Under 7s

For players aged 7, the NRL has introduced the Tackle Ready Program, a structured approach to transitioning into tackling.

In the first half of the season, players will participate in tag rugby league, focusing on developing their understanding of the game and refining their skills in a non-contact environment.

In the second half of the season, players will progress to tackle rugby league, having gained the necessary skills and confidence to safely engage in contact.

The introduction of the new Player Development Framework by the NRL represents a significant step forward in the evolution of junior rugby league.

By prioritising skill development, safety, and enjoyment, these reforms aim to create a nurturing environment where young athletes can thrive and grow both on and off the field.

As we look ahead to the implementation of these changes in 2024, it’s clear that the future of junior rugby league is brighter than ever before.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click Here to visit the NRL website.

Let us know what YOU think

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The post Important changes to JRL coming appeared first on OurFootyTeam.

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Junior Sharks off to a winning start

It was a positive start to the 2024 season for both the Mathews Cup and SG Ball teams, with the two Sharks junior representative squads scored impressive round one wins over the Balmain Tigers.

In hot and sticky conditions at PointsBet Stadium, the under-17 Matthews Cup outfit were dominant in a 32-6 victory.

Cronulla Sharks Harold Matthews cup Round 1 (Photo – Steve Montgomery)

In the SG Ball match that followed, the under-19 Cronulla squad rebounded from a first half deficit to record a 44-18 win.

In the first official hit out for most of the Sharks team at a junior rep level, the Matthews Sharks were on the board early through fullback Oliver Lester.

Backrower Kaden Garner crossed soon after and at 10-0 after the opening 15-minutes the Cronulla side were well on top.

Two more tries before half time sent the Sharks to the break with a commanding 22-0 advantage, and they would go on with the job, the only blemish when conceding a late Tigers try from close range.

Matthews Cup coach Brad Kelly was understandably pleased with the first up efforts of his team.

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“Happy with the win, a good way to start the season,” Kelly said “It wasn’t a perfect performance, but we did enough to come away with a good win.

“For the most part our forwards did a good job of putting a dent in them and running really hard, allowing us to get good roll on.

The defense was really good, they tested us a couple of times early on and there was one breech in the second half, but for the most part they did a good job in the middle and on both edges as well.

“It was good to lay a platform to build on for next week, but definitely some areas to improve on before we go into round two,” Kelly added.

While the Sharks had a host of solid performers across the park, with Garner in the backrow and Tom Dellow at lock, the pair having the experience of played at a Matthews Cup level the previous season, two of the standouts.

In the SG Ball match follow, with the advantage of a strong northly breeze and while also capitalising on Sharks ill-discipline, the Tigers took control, building an 18-4 lead with half time approaching.

However, in what was a momentum-turning moment, a try out wide to winger Richard Whalebone following a skillful tap-on from his centre partner Nikora Williams.

Riley Pollard adding the extra two from wide out, and at 18-10 the Sharks went to the break with a spring in their step.

“The try just before half time was very important.

Cronulla Sharks SG Ball Cup Round 1 (Photo – Steve Montgomery)

That six points was really vital for us, gave us a boost of confidence and energy going into half time and I think we showed what we can do in the second half when we respect the footy,” Sharks SG Ball coach Dave Howlett said.

A try to Michael Gabrael just one minute into the second half, his second of what would be three four-pointers on the day, put his team on the front foot.

When with committed defense and the loins share of possession it was all Sharks, five more tries, for 34 points in the second period, rounding out the win.

In addition to Gabrael’s hat trick, Whalebone on the right wing crossed for a try scoring double, as did backrower Pharrell Gray.

The Ball Sharks also received strong contributions from bench forward Harry Samuel, Williams at centre and from Max McCarthy, who in playing both middle forward and on the edge, worked tirelessly throughout.

The two Sharks junior rep teams are at home again in round two when they host the Parramatta Eels at PointsBet Stadium on Saturday. The Matthews Cup match is scheduled to kick off at 12.30pm, with the SG Ball contest at 2.15pm.

MATTHEWS CUP
SHARKS 32
TIGERS 6

SG BALL
TIGERS 18

Photos and quotes courtesy of Steve Montgomery from ourfootyteam.com.au

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The post Junior Sharks off to a winning start appeared first on OurFootyTeam.