Despite fielding a team very much different to the one selected earlier in the week, the NSW Cup Sharks have pushed competition leaders Wentworthville all the way in going down by 30-28 at Henson Park on Saturday.
Jonathan Wright, Melbourne’s Kurt Mann, Daniel Holdsworth, David Fifita and Tupou Sopoaga were some of those missing on the day, with the Sharks forced to call on three NYC squad members to make up a 17-man team for the clash.
But far be it for the young Sharks squad to be overawed, and except for a number of errors at crucial stages of the match, could have pulled off a stunning upset.
Relishing his opportunity at having more game time former Gymea junior Sione Masima was one to shine, the Sharks back rower crossing for three tries on the day, while Michael Lichaa and Storm forward Junior Moors were others to impress in the narrow loss.
Despite going down to the Magpies the Sharks managed to hold onto a place in the top eight and after 10 rounds are seventh with 12 points from five wins, four losses and a bye.
The next match for the NSW Cup Sharks will be up against the Wests Tigers at Remondis Stadium on Saturday. The match will be a part of a three-game roster with the NSW Cup scheduled to kick off at 3.15pm.
SHARKS 28
Sione Masima 3, Scott Sorenson, Jacob Gagan tries, Travis Robinson 4 goals
Lost to
WENTWORTHVILLE MAGPIES 30
