Sharks step up a gear

While the temperatures where a little kinder as compared to last week as a cooling southerly blew across Toyota Stadium, the intensity lifted another notch on Monday as the Sharks began week two of 2013 pre-season training following their break over Christmas and New Year.

Led by skipper Paul Gallen who has rejoined the squad since the break, the Sharks worked on various aspects of their attack and defense under the watchful eye of coach Shane Flanagan and his assistants Peter Sharp and James Shepherd.

And in some further good news for Sharks fans, star five eighth Todd Carney continued his rehabilitation from an Achilles injury as he went through some running drills with physiotherapist Konrad Schultz.

Following his on-field session with Schultz Carney then carried out a series of passing drills with fullback Nathan Gardner, another who is on the road to full fitness after a knee injury cut short his season and his playing opportunities in 2012.

Gardner is set to do battle with Michael Gordon for the fullback position, with the former Origin representative Gordon looking sharp while completing the attacking drills and skills with his newly adopted teammates.

The Sharks now have less than a month until their first hit out for 2013 which will be against last years Grand Finalists the Manly Sea Eagles.

That trial match is scheduled for Friday, February 8 at Brookvale Oval, with details and a kick off time yet to be finalised.

The Sharks second trial match, against the Newcastle Knights in Tamworth is set down for Saturday, February 23 at Skully Park. Ticketing details will be available soon via the Sharks website.