The Sharks were comprehensive in their victory over the Cowboys, securing their place in the 2016 NRL Grand Final.
1. Sharks secure spot on Grand stage
It happened!
After a 15 game winning streak during the season, many pundits believed the Sharks would finally break their Premiership drought and secured their elusive first piece of silverware in 2016.
However after a string of losses late in the season, many began to doubt them.
Tonight’s victory has now quashed any doubters. We’re there. We’re in the Grand Final.
2. Townsend bounces back to star
After an uncharacteristic performance in his last outing against the Raiders, Chad Townsend bounced back.
And he bounced back in style.
Townsend looked composed during general play last night along with playing a big part in Luke Lewis’ try and scoring one himself.
3. Halves partner wasn’t too bad either…
Not to be outdone thought was Townsend’s halves partner James Maloney.
The five-eighth revelled on the big stage, scoring 20 points on the night and guiding his side to victory in the process.
Maloney has the ability to win games of football and Shane Flanagan said following his side’s Round 13 victory over the Bulldogs that “that’s what he’s paid to do.”
What can we say, Jimmy is a big game player.
4. Sharks big men lay platform for victory
In Paul Gallen’s absence in Week 1 of the Finals, Matt Prior and Andrew Fifita stood up.
However, through the inspirational skipper into the mix (166m) along with Prior (174m), Fifita (163), Graham (149) and Lewis (113) and you have one helluva forward pack.
The Sharks ‘big boys’ gave their side the momentum the backs needed to perform against a quality outfit such as the Cowboys and Shane Flanagan will no doubt be hoping for much the same in next Sunday’s big dance!
5. NRL now singing ‘Why Not Us!’
It has been the Club’s official theme throughout the 2016 Finals Series however now many people are asking; Why Not Us!
The line represents so much that the playing group, Club itself along with Members and fans have been through over the years and are proud of where we are today.
The line galvanises all of us in our desire to be successful and bring out the best in each and everyone of us.
This week, when you’re thinking about Sunday’s Grand Final or just about your beloved Sharks, be proud and say with pride Why Not Us!
