The confidence gained by the NYC Sharks from a strong win over finals-bound Melbourne two weeks ago dissipated somewhat when the young Cronulla side were soundly beaten by the then-15th placed Raiders last weekend at Remondis Stadium.
The Raiders climbed over the Sharks on the competition ladder with the victory, with the win built on a strong first 40-minutes from the Raiders and a poor defensive half from the home team.
The Sharks rallied to an extent after the break but gave up too much start to the Raiders team to be able to mount any sort of serious challenge.
This weekend the Sharks travel to Townsville to tackle a Cowboys team which will also be watching on come finals time.
With a number of NYC-eligible players again called up for NSW Cup or NRL duties coach Dave Howlett will be forced to field a young, but at the same time a capable line up for the Cowboys match.
Two more players who were a part of the Sharks SG Ball side in 2014 in Semisi Vea and Daniel Liddicoat have been included in an 18-man squad.
The game has been moved from Monday night and will now be played on Saturday evening at jack Manski Oval in Townsville, the home ground of the local Brothers club. Kick-off is scheduled for 6.00pm.
NYC Team List – Round 25
Sharks v Cowboys
Saturday, August 30
Jack Manski Oval
Kick-off – 6.00pm
1 Dallas Wells
2 Finlay Dibley
3 Tuli Leota
4 Jamayne Isaako
5 Joshua Addo-Carr
6 Jaden Clarke (C)
7 Connor Tracey
8 Alec Susino
9 Jayden Brailey
10 Kalausa Leha
11 Jake Lawrence
12 Ashleigh Nisbet
13 Sage Wilder
INTERCHANGE
14 Jayden Walker
15 Francis Laloua-Tui
16 Harrison Muller
17 Semisi Vea
19 Daniel Liddicoat