The NSW Cup Sharks started pretty much where they left off in 2013 when the defending competition premiers began their new season with a victory over the Bulldogs.
The Sharks jumped out to a big early lead over the Bulldogs before injuries hampered their second half efforts and allowed their opponents back into the game.
All in all however the 38-30 victory achieved the desired result of putting two competition points on the board with the NSW Cup Sharks now looking forward to their next assignment against the Tigers.
With the NRL squad decimated by injury and fullback Nathan Gardner unavailable due to a shoulder injury, the Sharks have been forced to rely on some youth to bolster their ranks, with under 20’s Lachlan Jackson and Jake Lawrence called into the side.
Melbourne’s Kurt Mann shifts to fullback for the game, with the versatile Pat Politoni assuming the five eighth role.
One positive for the Sharks is the return of highly rated youngster Sione Masima after the back rower missed round one with a leg injury.
The Sharks play the Tigers in their round two clash at Campbelltown Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
NSW CUP Team List
Sharks v Wests Tigers
Campbelltown Stadium
Saturday, March 15
Kickoff – 3.00pm
1 Kurt Mann
2 Nathan Stapleton
3 Junior Roqica
4 Jacob Gagan
5 Lachlan Jackson
6 Pat Politoni
7 Penani Manumalealii
8 Tim Robinson
9 Michael Lichaa
10 Dayne Weston
11 Junior Moors
12 Michael Morris
13 Slade Griffin
INTERCHANGE
14 Jake Lawrence
15 Sione Masima
16 David Fifita
17 Scott Sorensen
