In perhaps their most physical performance of the 2015 SG Ball season the Sharks have beaten Souths 20-8 to extend their season by sneaking into the top eight.
Needing a win to give themselves any chance, the Sharks slipped behind 2-0 early but after that early penalty goal never trailed again in the match.
A well worked back line move saw stand-in fullback Will Kennedy put winger Josh Tuilagi over wide out and when Jack Williams converted the Sharks led 6-2.
With the momentum well and truly in their favour the under-18 Sharks would score twice more in the opening half, the first by Billy Magoulias, the second when Jesse Savage crashed through and dashed 25 metres in a blockbusting charge.
Williams managed to kick one out of the two conversion attempts and the Sharks led 16-2 at half time.
With both sides lifting the defensive intensity in the second period points were at a premium, however when Williams dived over from dummy half to make it 20-6, the result was virtually out of reach for the Rabbitohs.
The home team gave themselves hope when half back Kurtis Preece dashed past some tired defense, but that would be as close as they would get as the Sharks held on for a much-needed win.
The Sharks had a number of quality performers on the day, with Tuilagi very involved from the left wing, Magoulias and Daniel Vasquez strong in the middle of the field and Kennedy enterprising in the fullback role.
Five eighth Jaiden Brown also played well against his former club in his first match back after a lengthy stint on the sideline after breaking his jaw in round one.
The Sharks finals opponent and finishing position will be confirmed tomorrow when all round nine matches are complete however they can’t be knocked of eighth place with their opponent likely to be either Parramatta or Newcastle, two teams they have played already during the 2015 season.
The Sharks website will publish the finals opponent, venue and kick off time once it becomes available.
SHARKS 20
Jack Williams, Josh Tuilagi, Jesse Savage, Billy Magoulias tries, Williams 2 goals
Beat
SOUTHS 8
Kurtis Preece try, Siosifa Talakai 2 goals
