With the Sharks' first fixture of the NRL campaign just 10 days away, Captain Paul Gallen spoke with the media on Wednesday to discuss the side's chances heading into the season.
In Terrigal as the side set down for a training camp on the verge of the season opener, Gallen said the Club's focus - although firmly fixed on the Round 1 venture to Townsville - is on that of a top four finish in 2016.
Having recruited well in the off-season, the skipper said the Sharks have the confidence to again be there at the back end of the season.
"I think we should have finished in the top four last year, we really let our selves down ... this year's a totally different year so now that becomes irrelevant really," Gallen said.
"There's no doubt about it, we have to show some confidence ... we want to play semi-final football, we want to be there come the final two or three weeks.
"But there's a lot of hard work to come between now and then."
With the side's hopes and expectations heading into the new year at levels perhaps not seen in some time, Gallen likened the the current squad to that of the 2002 roster - a side brimming with youth and experience, featuring names like Peachey, Mellor and Stevens.
"It's a good opportunity for us ... (except) unfortunately I'm one of the older guys now," Gallen laughed.
Watch the full interview with Gallen, now playing on Sharks TV.
