The Cronulla Sharks emerged victorious in their pre-season clash against the Canterbury Bulldogs with a 12-6 win at Belmore Sports Ground. The game, although scrappy at times, provided a glimpse into the form and readiness of both teams as they prepare for the upcoming NRL season.
Amidst the excitement, questions loomed over the fitness of star halfback Nicho Hynes, sparking curiosity about his availability for the season opener. Hynes sustained a quad injury, bringing attention to the team’s strategy and performance in his absence. The responsibility to steer the team fell upon Braydon Trindall and Daniel Atkinson, with Trindall securing the No.6 jersey. However, Trindall’s performance highlighted areas for improvement, emphasizing the team’s preparation and training leading up to the season opener.
Adding to the mix, Matt Burton’s high tackle, placing him on report and leaving him in uncertainty as the NRL’s charge sheet looms. The tackle on Sharks’ halfback Atkinson forced the player off the field for an HIA, potentially impacting Canterbury’s upcoming matches.
The game also saw Stephen Crichton’s unofficial Bulldogs debut, where he played a pivotal role for the team in the first 20 minutes, receiving a warm welcome from the fans. However, the roar of 6,000 fans at the Dogs’ spiritual grounds was met with the stealth of Teig Wilton, who scored the Sharks’ first points, setting a tone for the game.
The match painted a picture of pre-season intensity and rivalry as the teams locked horns. With Chris Veaila securing Cronulla’s lead with eight minutes remaining, the game showcased both sides’ determination and the potential challenges they may face in the forthcoming season.
The clash proved to be an essential step for both teams in gauging their strengths and weaknesses before the upcoming NRL season. As the dust settles from this encounter, the spotlight now shifts to how these learnings and experiences will shape the teams’ strategies and readiness for the challenging battles that lie ahead in the NRL.
